Description
This simple and fresh pasta recipe, favored by Meghan Markle, combines garlic, grape tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese for a vibrant, flavorful dish that cooks entirely in one pot. The pasta simmers directly in boiling water with herbs and seasonings, absorbing all the rich flavors for a quick, satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- Zest of 1 lemon
Pasta and Seasonings
- 4 cups boiling water
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Finishing Touches
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large pot or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and halved grape tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start breaking down, releasing their juices. Stir in the lemon zest to infuse the sauce with fresh citrus notes.
- Add Pasta and Seasonings: Pour in the boiling water and immediately add the pasta along with the Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine and ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together.
- Cook the Pasta: Allow the pasta to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until most of the water is absorbed and the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite—this should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it wilts completely into the pasta, adding a fresh, vibrant green color and flavor.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slightly and create a creamy texture. Serve immediately, with extra grated Parmesan on the side if desired.
Notes
- Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Use gluten-free pasta to modify this recipe for gluten-free diets.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with baby kale or arugula for variation.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on your preference.
