Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach. It’s a quick meal packed with flavor!

Cook the spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then drain the spaghetti.
Prepare the garlic and spinach:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn it).
Cook the spinach:
- Add the spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring to let it wilt down (this will take about 3-5 minutes).
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
Combine pasta and spinach:
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the spinach. Toss well to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water to create a light sauce if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more red pepper flakes if desired.
Finish & Serve:
- If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice, lemon zest, and/or freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh touch.

Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for some extra protein.
Nuts: A handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts adds a nice crunch.

This dish is light, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Let me know if you need any tweaks or have specific dietary preferences!