Creamy Green Spaghetti with Garlic & Herbs

There’s nothing quite like a warm plate of pasta on a cozy evening, when the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs fills your kitchen and wraps around you like a comforting hug. This Creamy Green Spaghetti with Garlic & Herbs is the perfect recipe for those nights when you want something both satisfying and vibrant. Inspired by the fresh, herb-forward flavors of Mediterranean cooking, this dish combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the bright, earthy notes of green herbs and spinach, creating a pasta experience that’s both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or treating yourself to a solo dinner, this recipe turns a simple weeknight into something special.

The idea for this dish came from the classic “green sauces” of Italian cuisine, where herbs, garlic, and sometimes leafy greens are transformed into a silky, flavorful coating for pasta. But we wanted to elevate it, adding a creamy texture without overpowering the delicate flavors of fresh herbs. The result is a vibrant, green, aromatic plate of spaghetti that looks as good as it tastes—a dish worth photographing, sharing, and returning to again and again.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups fresh spinach, packed

• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream alternative

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, basil, or chives)

Directions

1. Cook the spaghetti
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the garlic and herb base
   While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown.

3. Blend the greens
   In a food processor or blender, combine the spinach, parsley, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help create a silky puree.

4. Create the creamy sauce
   Add the green puree to the skillet with garlic. Pour in the cream and stir over low heat until the sauce is smooth and warm. Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.

5. Combine pasta and sauce
   Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat each strand evenly with the green sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Season to taste
   Add salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is distributed evenly.

7. Garnish and serve
   Plate the spaghetti and garnish with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan or nutritional yeast. Serve immediately for maximum flavor and texture.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Green Spaghetti

• Choose fresh herbs and greens: The flavor of this dish depends heavily on fresh ingredients. Fresh parsley, basil, and spinach give a vibrant color and clean, aromatic taste.

• Don’t overcook your pasta: Al dente spaghetti ensures the noodles hold up against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

• Adjust creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with unsweetened plant-based milk or use Greek yogurt off the heat for a tangy twist.

• Balance flavors: Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, while Parmesan adds a savory depth. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.

• Make it vegan: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and heavy cream with plant-based cream for a fully vegan-friendly option that’s just as indulgent.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe hits the sweet spot between comfort and freshness. The creamy sauce clings to the spaghetti, creating a luxurious mouthfeel, while the herbs and spinach keep it light and refreshing. Unlike heavy cream-only pasta sauces, the inclusion of fresh greens ensures that each bite has a bright, vibrant flavor, while the garlic adds warmth and depth.

Additionally, the lemon zest and juice are subtle but transformative. They cut through the richness of the cream without overpowering the dish, giving the spaghetti a lively, balanced taste. Every element—garlic, herbs, cream, and cheese—works together to create a harmonious flavor profile that feels indulgent yet not heavy.

Serving Suggestions

• Family dinner: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

• Entertaining guests: Pair with roasted vegetables or a light appetizer for an elegant dinner party option.

• Solo indulgence: Add a poached egg on top for a cozy, comforting meal perfect for a self-care evening.

• Meal prep: The sauce can be made ahead and stored separately in the fridge. Simply toss with freshly cooked pasta for a quick weeknight dinner.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

• Freezing: While the pasta itself doesn’t freeze well, the sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and gently warm before tossing with fresh spaghetti.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Absolutely! While spinach is mild and blends easily into a creamy sauce, you can experiment with other leafy greens to create interesting flavor variations. Kale, Swiss chard, and arugula are all excellent alternatives. Kale has a slightly earthy, robust flavor and may need a few extra seconds in boiling water or a bit more blending to reach the same silky texture as spinach. Swiss chard adds a subtle bitterness that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the sauce. Arugula, on the other hand, introduces a peppery note that brightens the overall dish. For the best results, wash and roughly chop the greens before blending to ensure a smooth, even sauce. You can also combine different greens to create a unique flavor profile tailored to your taste.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is quite convenient for meal prep or planning ahead. The green herb sauce can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, cook the spaghetti fresh and toss it with the chilled sauce. You may need to gently reheat the sauce in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to restore its silky consistency. Preparing the sauce ahead not only saves time but also allows the flavors of garlic, herbs, and lemon to deepen, resulting in an even more flavorful dish. This approach is perfect for busy weeknights, hosting guests, or simply keeping a ready-to-go, fresh, homemade meal on hand.

3. How do I make this recipe vegan?
Making this dish vegan is simple without sacrificing taste or creaminess. Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream, cashew cream, or soy-based cream. To maintain the signature cheesy flavor, swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast, which provides a similar savory, umami-rich taste. You can also enhance the depth of flavor by adding a small pinch of garlic powder or a splash of plant-based milk while blending the sauce. The result is a creamy, indulgent pasta that’s fully plant-based but still rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Vegan adaptations work just as well for meal prep and reheating.

4. Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely! The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes to add a subtle kick, but the spice level is entirely customizable. For a mild, family-friendly version, simply omit the red pepper flakes. If you enjoy heat, you can increase the amount to suit your preference, or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra punch. Freshly ground black pepper is also a great way to add warmth without overwhelming the herbaceous flavors of the sauce. By adjusting these elements, you can tailor the dish to match your personal taste, making it perfect for both picky eaters and spice lovers alike.

Health Benefits

While this dish is indulgent, it also provides several health benefits:

• Greens: Spinach, parsley, and basil are packed with vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and magnesium.

• Garlic: Adds flavor and potential cardiovascular benefits due to its natural compounds.

• Olive oil: A source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

By combining creamy indulgence with nutrient-rich ingredients, this recipe proves that comfort food can also be wholesome and satisfying.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

Once you try this Creamy Green Spaghetti with Garlic & Herbs, it quickly becomes a go-to in your recipe rotation. Its balance of richness and freshness, combined with the aromatic appeal of garlic and herbs, makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even a last-minute meal for guests.

The visual appeal of the vibrant green sauce also makes it incredibly shareable on social media. The dish not only tastes amazing but also photographs beautifully, making it ideal for those who love sharing food experiences online.

Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, this recipe inspires creativity. You can easily add roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for variations, all while keeping the core creamy herb flavor intact. Its simplicity, elegance, and flavor make it a recipe that will always impress.

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be about joy, creativity, and savoring flavors that delight the senses. Creamy Green Spaghetti with Garlic & Herbs captures all of that in a single dish. From the first garlicky aroma to the creamy, herbaceous bite, it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients elevated into a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting.

Don’t let the elegant presentation intimidate you—the recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels. With a few pantry staples, fresh herbs, and some basic cooking tools, you can create a meal that looks gourmet and tastes unforgettable.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the kitchen fill with the vibrant smells of garlic and herbs. This creamy green spaghetti isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, one that will bring joy to your table and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Creamy Green Spaghetti with Garlic & Herbs

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A vibrant, comforting pasta dish perfect for cozy evenings or special weeknight dinners. This creamy green spaghetti blends fresh spinach, herbs, and garlic into a silky, flavorful sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s fresh, satisfying, and simple enough for any home cook to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups fresh spinach, packed

• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream alternative

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, basil, or chives)

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Instructions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

• In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, parsley, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky puree.

• Add the green puree to the skillet with garlic. Pour in the cream and stir over low heat until smooth and warmed through. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.

• Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Adjust consistency by adding more reserved pasta water if necessary.

• Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss again to distribute seasoning.

• Plate the spaghetti and garnish with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan or nutritional yeast. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Fresh herbs are key for a vibrant flavor and color.

• Adjust cream and pasta water ratios for preferred sauce thickness.

• Can be made vegan by substituting plant-based cream and nutritional yeast.

• Sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Michelle Davis