Spinach Tomato Pasta is like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with fresh flavors and delightful textures. Imagine twirling al dente pasta around your fork, while the vibrant colors of ripe tomatoes and leafy spinach dance in harmony. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, beckoning you to dive in. For more inspiration, check out this flavorful Italian delight recipe.
This dish is perfect for any occasion—from a cozy family dinner to impressing friends at a casual gathering. I remember the first time I made Spinach Tomato Pasta; my family couldn’t get enough of it! It was the kind of night where laughter echoed, and everyone fought over the last bite. perfect bread bites for pasta creamy pasta soup recipe Trust me, this recipe is not just food; it’s an experience. hearty veggie soup option.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Spinach Tomato Pasta recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making weeknight meals stress-free. Bursting with fresh flavors, it’s visually stunning and will have everyone asking for seconds. The versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your pantry staples or preferences, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. [/info_box]
I once served this dish during a family gathering, and the delighted faces said it all!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Choose your favorite type—spaghetti or penne work great! Ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture.
Fresh Spinach: Look for vibrant green leaves; they should be crisp and not wilted.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for sweet cherry tomatoes; they add a burst of flavor when cooked.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for that aromatic kick; minced garlic enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will elevate your dish with its rich taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and depth—don’t skip this ingredient! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy chicken parm soup recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a little heat in your pasta.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions closely.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds before adding halved cherry tomatoes.
Add Spinach and Seasonings: Once tomatoes soften, toss in fresh spinach along with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until spinach wilts down—it should take about 2-3 minutes.
Combine Pasta with Sauce: Drain your pasta but reserve some cooking water. Add the drained pasta into the skillet with veggies; toss everything together to combine flavors.
Add Cheese and Adjust Consistency: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the top while mixing well. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired sauciness.
Serve Hot and Enjoy!: Plate your beautiful Spinach Tomato Pasta immediately while it’s hot! Garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired for that finishing touch. healthy turkey pesto wraps.
Now you’re ready to dig into this delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta! Enjoy every bite as you savor the blend of flavors that come together so effortlessly. Don’t forget to share it with friends or family—the laughter around the table will make it even more special!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Spinach Tomato Pasta is not just delicious; it’s a dish that can be made in under 30 minutes. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a vibrant, mouthwatering meal perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta while sautéing garlic and tomatoes. Once cooked, mix everything together with spinach for even flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add grilled chicken for protein. A sprinkle of feta cheese elevates the dish even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat to maintain texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To make your Spinach Tomato Pasta extra special, remember to use fresh ingredients whenever possible. A little extra olive oil and a squeeze of lemon can brighten flavors significantly. Don’t forget to save some pasta water for your sauce! [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made Spinach Tomato Pasta for friends; their faces lit up like Christmas morning when they took a bite. It was a hit!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for Spinach Tomato Pasta?
Any pasta shape works well, but penne or spaghetti holds the sauce nicely.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit cheese and use olive oil instead of butter.
How can I add more protein to the dish?
Consider adding cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or chickpeas for extra protein goodness.
Spinach Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spinach Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together al dente pasta, fresh spinach, and sweet cherry tomatoes for a delightful meal. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, ensuring a harmonious blend of taste and texture in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds before adding halved cherry tomatoes. Cook until softened.
- Stir in the spinach along with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until spinach wilts (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with the vegetables, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the pasta and mix well.
- Plate immediately and garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
