Fresh Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Name: Fresh Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I can’t get enough of this Fresh Spinach and Artichoke Pasta! When I first created this recipe, I wanted a dish that was both delicious and vibrant, showcasing the freshness of spinach and the savory flavors of artichokes. The creamy sauce ties it all together beautifully. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Every bite bursts with flavor, and I love how the ingredients complement each other. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-12T12:54:19.179Z

When I first made this pasta dish, I wanted to capture the essence of fresh ingredients. I used organic spinach and tender artichoke hearts, which transformed a simple pasta dish into something extraordinary. The key is to sauté the spinach just until wilted, preserving its vibrant color and nutrients. And don’t forget the cream cheese – it adds a delightful creaminess that makes the sauce irresistible!

After several attempts to perfect the flavors, I discovered that a touch of garlic and lemon juice elevate the dish beautifully. The garlic adds depth, while the lemon juice provides a bright contrast that balances the richness of the sauce. Now, this delightful pasta is a crowd-pleaser in my home, and I’m thrilled to share it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A creamy and flavorful sauce that brings a taste of Italy home
Packed with nutritious spinach and artichokes for a healthful twist
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in this Fresh Spinach and Artichoke Pasta are undoubtedly the spinach and artichokes. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and a mild, slightly earthy flavor, while artichokes bring a unique, tender texture and a subtle hint of nuttiness. When selecting artichokes, opt for canned hearts packed in water to maintain their tenderness without additional oil. If you're feeling adventurous, you can substitute fresh artichokes; however, it requires longer cooking and preparation time, as you'll need to clean and cook them until tender.

Another key ingredient is the cream cheese, which forms the base of the luscious sauce. It provides creaminess without being overly rich, creating a balanced mouthfeel. To lighten the dish, you could swap in low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt, which would also add a tangy flavor. The Parmesan cheese not only enhances the savory profile but also contributes umami depth. For a non-dairy alternative, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy flavor.

Perfecting Your Technique

When cooking the pasta, ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta. This step is crucial for preventing the noodles from becoming sticky. Stir occasionally as it cooks, and aim for al dente texture, usually indicated on the package—about 8-10 minutes for penne or fusilli. Remember to reserve a cup of the pasta water; it can be a helpful addition to the sauce later on, helping to achieve the desired creaminess without thinning it out too much.

As you sauté the garlic, keep an eye on it; cooking it just until fragrant—about 1 minute—is ideal. Garlic can go from perfect to burnt quickly, leading to a bitter taste. Incorporating the spinach last will preserve its vibrant green color and fresh flavor. The key to achieving a glossy sauce lies in the careful mixing of the cream cheese and other ingredients. Stir them over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking and curdling the cream base.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this vibrant pasta dish.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and creamy pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the softened cream cheese and mix until melted and creamy. Add the chopped artichokes, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your fresh and creamy spinach and artichoke pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or rich feta cheese into the mix.

Serving Suggestions

This Fresh Spinach and Artichoke Pasta is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. Consider arugula dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast that complements the creamy pasta. Additionally, you can serve it with garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, adding a comforting touch to your meal.

For a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp can easily be added. Just season your protein with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon before cooking it in the same skillet after the garlic. This not only enhances the flavor but also infuses the skillet with an additional layer of deliciousness for your pasta.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning for a busy week, you can prepare the spinach and artichoke sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and reheat the sauce over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of reserved pasta water for creaminess.

For freezing, I recommend undercooking the pasta slightly so it maintains its texture upon reheating. You can freeze the sauce in portioned containers for up to three months. When reheating, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it on the stove. Keep in mind that fresh spinach won't freeze well, so add it freshly during the final cooking stage before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or fusilli pasta works well, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ How long does the leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.