Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2

Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

Step 3

Add the 5 oz baby spinach and 0.5 cup pesto to the hot pasta. Toss until the spinach wilts and everything is coated, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4

Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until the sauce reaches a silky consistency that clings to the pasta.

Step 5

Season with the 1 tsp salt and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Serve topped with the 0.5 cup shaved parmesan.

Step 6

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving if you have them.