Years ago, I would avoid creamy pasta like the plague. Heavy sauces made me feel bloated, tired, and totally off-track with my health goals. But one evening, I experimented with a lighter version—using almond milk, garlic, lemon, and a little parmesan—and this Creamy Spring Pasta with Spinach was born.

It’s cozy, satisfying, and full of fresh spring flavor without the usual cream-and-butter overload.

Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes and makes a great meatless Monday or easy weeknight dinner.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (fusilli, penne, or your favorite)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 cups fresh spinach

• ½ cup frozen peas (optional, for extra spring flair)

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or toasted pine nuts for topping

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

1. Cook the pasta:
   Boil according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Sauté the garlic + greens:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant. Add spinach (and peas if using), sauté until wilted.

3. Make it creamy:
   Stir in almond milk, parmesan, lemon juice + zest. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Combine:
   Add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved water if needed to loosen the sauce. Toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve:
   Top with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or toasted pine nuts if desired.

💡 Sarah’s Tips

• Want more protein? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

• Make it dairy-free: Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

• Picky eater tip: Finely chop the spinach so it blends right in!

• Leftovers? Store in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of milk.

🌿 Light, Creamy, and Totally Satisfying

This pasta is proof that creamy doesn’t have to mean heavy—and healthy doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s become one of my favorite spring comfort meals, especially when I’m craving something cozy but still want to feel light and energized after dinner.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep it on repeat.