This creamy and cheesy spinach pasta (healthy palak pasta) is a vibrant, veggie-packed dish made with fresh spinach, garlic, and melty cheese — perfect for a quick vegetarian meal.
200g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 packed cups fresh spinach
1 small onion, chopped
2–3 garlic cloves
1 green chili (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
¼–½ cup milk
¼–½ cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
1 tbsp cream (optional)
Salt, pepper, chili flakes, Italian herbs to taste
Boil pasta until al dente. Reserve some water and set aside.
Blanch spinach, garlic, and green chili in boiling water for 30–45 seconds. Transfer to ice water.
Blend into a smooth purée using a splash of milk.
In a pan, heat oil. Sauté onion until translucent.
Add spinach purée and cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir in milk, salt, pepper, and spices.
Add cheese and cream, stir until smooth.
Toss in cooked pasta. Mix well. Add pasta water if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs.
Use frozen spinach if needed. Add chickpeas or paneer for extra protein. Skip chili for a kid-friendly version.