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: 12 oz pasta of your choice; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta because it's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lentils and spinach creates a satisfying dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy meal in. The creaminess comes from a few simple ingredients that blend beautifully to coat the pasta. I usually pair it with a sprinkle of parmesan to elevate the flavors further. Join me in whipping up this vibrant dish that's both comforting and wholesome!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:52:19.599Z

During one of those busy weeknights, I decided to experiment with what I had on hand, and the result was this Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta. The rich sauce, made with creamy ingredients and seasoned perfectly, struck the right balance against the hearty lentils. It was a hit in my kitchen!

What I found remarkable was how quickly it came together. The lentils not only provide protein and fiber but also add a wonderful texture. I recommend adding a pinch of nutmeg to heighten the flavors even more. Trust me, it elevates the dish to new heights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, luscious sauce that clings to every pasta strand
Nutritious lentils packed with protein and fiber
A great way to use fresh spinach and elevate weeknight meals

      

Ingredient Insights

The creamy texture of this dish comes primarily from the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heavy cream not only enriches the sauce but also helps to bind it to the pasta, creating that desired luscious, clingy sauce. If you're looking to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half for a less rich option or use a plant-based cream for a vegan alternative, although the flavor will vary.

Lentils are the star protein in this recipe. Besides being packed with protein and fiber, they add a hearty texture that balances the creaminess of the sauce. I recommend using green or brown lentils, which hold their shape well, but red lentils can also work in a pinch—they will break down and provide more of a thickening effect in the sauce.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the pasta, ensure it reaches al dente—tender yet firm to the bite. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that won’t hold up in a creamy sauce. Be sure to reserve that cup of pasta water; it’s invaluable for adjusting the sauce's consistency later. The starch from the pasta water is perfect for making the sauce stick to your noodles without making it overly thick or dense.

Sauté the garlic just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes over medium heat. This low-and-slow approach keeps the garlic from burning, which can impart a bitter taste. Once you add the spinach and lentils, don’t rush this step; cook until the spinach just wilts, about 3-4 minutes, to retain its bright color and nutrients.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta of your choice
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Prepare the ingredients and set aside.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spinach and Lentils

Stir in the fresh spinach and cooked lentils. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer. Grate in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Combine with Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and cracked black pepper if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce. It complements the creamy texture beautifully!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep! If preparing in advance, cook the pasta separately and store it in an airtight container. The creamy sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding splash of reserved pasta water to ensure a smooth consistency as you heat.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can sometimes leave the pasta a bit dry, so make sure to add a bit of water or cream as you warm it up. For freezing, it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta to prevent it from becoming too mushy.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the flavors of your Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta, consider a garnish of freshly cracked black pepper on each serving, alongside an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A few red pepper flakes can also add a kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread—the bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Feel free to customize this recipe with additional veggies like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can roast them beforehand to deepen their flavor, or sauté them alongside the garlic for a quicker option. Experimenting with herbs like basil or thyme could also elevate the dish, adding aromatic qualities to the creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy will work perfectly.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a vegan version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to a month. Thaw and reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.