How to wilt spinach quickly for pasta?

Fast wilting for pasta dishes

Wilting spinach into hot pasta is a quick way to add greens and flavor. Use the residual heat of the cooked pasta and its sauce to wilt leaves gently so they integrate without becoming waterlogged.

Method:

1. Cook pasta and reserve a cup of starchy pasta water.
2. Return drained pasta to the hot pot or a skillet with sauce; add fresh spinach on top.
3. Toss with tongs until leaves wilt—this takes 30–90 seconds depending on volume.
4. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen sauce and help wilt evenly.

Why it works: the hot pasta and sauce provide enough heat to wilt without extra liquid, preserving texture and avoiding a watery dish. Add Parmesan, lemon zest, or crushed red pepper at the end for balance.

This technique is perfect for quick weeknight meals, making spinach a seamless part of the pasta rather than a separately cooked side.