Spinach and Walnut Pasta

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, toast the 1 cup walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the 3 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the 3 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn.

Step 4

Add the 5 oz baby spinach to the skillet in handfuls, tossing until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with the 1 tsp salt and 0.5 tsp black pepper.

Step 5

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with the toasted walnuts and the juice of the lemon. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce coats the pasta nicely.

Step 6

Serve immediately, with extra lemon wedges if desired.