Pasta with Lemon Spinach Parmesan and Bread Crumbs
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly satisfying, this Pasta with Lemon Spinach Parmesan and Bread Crumbs is the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels gourmet yet comes together in just 30 minutes. Featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a luscious garlic-butter sauce, invigorated with fresh spinach, tangy lemon zest, and juice, it’s a dish that bursts with vibrant flavor. Melted Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, umami-rich coating, while golden, crispy panko bread crumbs provide the perfect crunch for contrast. Finished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick and fresh parsley for a herby flourish, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for family dinners or effortless entertaining, this pasta dish strikes the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko bread crumbs and toast, stirring constantly, for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer the bread crumbs to a bowl and set aside.
Wipe the skillet clean and return it to the stove. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems dry.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and coat the pasta. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
Divide the pasta among serving plates. Top each portion with a generous sprinkle of the toasted bread crumbs and chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1985 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 100.7 g | 129% | |
| Saturated Fat | 38.5 g | 192% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 142 mg | 47% | |
| Sodium | 4792 mg | 208% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 203.6 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.4 g | 73% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.1 g | ||
| Protein | 77.8 g | 156% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1474 mg | 113% | |
| Iron | 17.1 mg | 95% | |
| Potassium | 2066 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
