If you’ve ever Googled easy lunch ideas, healthy pasta recipes, or meals with minimal ingredients — this one’s for you. This Lemon Olive Oil Pasta with Spinach & Garlic is my go-to cozy comfort meal when I want something quick, satisfying, and a little elevated (without the extra work).
It’s a 20-minute pasta recipe that tastes way more impressive than it is — which makes it perfect for work-from-home lunches, lazy Sundays, or even a light weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
It’s a one-pan pasta meal with super simple ingredients you probably already have. It’s naturally vegetarian and easy to make vegan (just skip the cheese). It’s loaded with flavor thanks to fresh garlic, lemon, and good olive oil. It’s meal-prep friendly — make it in advance and reheat for a quick lunch.
The Main Ingredients:
Pasta (any type – think penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
Olive Oil
Garlic (fresh or garlic powder)
Fresh spinach (or any leafy greens)
Lemon juice + zest
And if you’ve got a little Parmesan or red pepper flakes on hand — toss ’em in! They add extra flavor and a nice kick.
How to Make This Lemon Olive Oil Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. While that’s cooking, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic until just fragrant. Toss in a couple handfuls of spinach and cook until just wilted. Drain your pasta (but don’t forget to reserve some pasta water!). Add the pasta to the pan with spinach, squeeze in lemon juice, and toss everything together. Use a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Healthy, Cozy, and Versatile 💛
What I love most about this dish is how clean and bright it tastes. The lemon makes everything feel fresh and light, and the spinach adds a nutrient boost without overpowering the dish. (Especially for those of us with low iron!)
It’s perfect on its own or alongside your favorite protein. Want to bulk it up? Add chickpeas or grilled chicken on top.
Save this recipe for when you need:
Healthy lunch ideas Pasta with lemon and spinach Garlic olive oil pasta recipes Quick vegetarian meals
📌 Pin it. Share it. Crave it again tomorrow.
Danielle Mone Knight 