Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta of your choice; 1 cup green lentils, rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Food

I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta because it combines the richness of cream with the earthiness of lentils in a delightful way. The fresh spinach blends beautifully into the sauce, giving it a vibrant green color that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. The dish takes just 30 minutes to prepare, allowing for a quick yet satisfying meal on busy weekdays. Trust me, you'll want to savor each bite of this comforting dish packed with nutrition and flavor.

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:13:34.735Z

As I developed this recipe, I wanted something that was both hearty and simple to make. After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that adding lentils not only boosts the protein content but also creates a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Cooking the lentils and pasta together saves time and infuses the flavors beautifully. Each component complements the other without overwhelming your palate.

One specific tip that I can share is to sauté the spinach until just wilting before adding it to the cream. This helps retain its vibrant color and freshness while ensuring that you get the maximum flavor into the sauce. Pair this dish with a light salad for a complete meal that feels indulgent without the guilt!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta
Nutritious lentils add protein and heartiness
Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and flavor
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner

      

Elevating Flavor with Spinach and Cream

The addition of fresh spinach not only contributes to the visual appeal of this dish but also enhances its nutritional profile. Spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals, which work harmoniously with the creamy sauce. As you sauté the spinach, look for it to wilt down significantly; this should take no more than 2-3 minutes. This process helps release some of its flavorful juices into the sauce, creating a more complex and inviting taste experience.

Heavy cream is the secret ingredient that gives this dish its luxurious mouthfeel. As it coats the pasta and lentils, it creates a satisfying, velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the earthy lentils. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a similar effect without overwhelming richness. Just ensure that whatever alternative you choose can still handle heating without curdling.

Perfecting Your Pasta and Lentils

When cooking the pasta and lentils together, timing is crucial to achieve the ideal texture. Aim to check the lentils after about 10 minutes; they should be tender but not mushy. If you're using a smaller pasta, consider reducing the overall cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking. If your pasta variety doesn’t cook as fast as lentils, you might want to cook them separately and combine them later for best results.

The choice of pasta is another element to consider carefully. Opt for a shape that can hold onto the creamy sauce effectively—think penne or fusilli. These shapes trap the sauce and enhance each mouthful with its rich flavors. If you find that your pasta is clumping together after draining, tossing it with a splash of olive oil will keep it separate and glossy before adding it to the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

200g pasta of your choice
1 cup green lentils, rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

These ingredients will make a creamy and delicious dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the pasta:

Cook the Lentils and Pasta

In a large pot, combine the rinsed lentils and pasta along with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until both are tender. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cream

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Next, pour in the heavy cream, mixing well. Allow the sauce to heat through, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained lentils and pasta back into the pot, stirring to combine everything evenly. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce. This subtle spice can elevate the richness of the dish. Additionally, keep some of the pasta water on hand in case the sauce needs to be loosened.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for 2-3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making the dish even tastier on the second day. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Microwave until warm or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without scorching.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. However, note that the cream may separate upon reheating, so be prepared for a slightly different texture. To freeze, let the pasta fully cool, then portion it into freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the best texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to personalize this recipe by adding proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra boost. Simply cook your protein separately and add it in just before serving. For a vegetarian alternative, chickpeas can be a wonderful substitution for lentils, providing a similar texture and protein content while adding a slight nuttiness to the dish.

Herbs can also elevate the flavors in this creamy pasta. Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can introduce a fresh contrast to the richness of the cream. Additionally, if you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic to give the dish an exciting kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add more fiber and nutrition to the dish.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan pasta option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would add additional flavors and textures.