Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet elegant dish, bursting with fresh flavors and a satisfying creamy texture – the kind of healthy meal that will leave you feeling nourished and happy. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, showcasing how easy it is to create delicious dishes from simple ingredients. Consider this your go-to for easy recipes that don't compromise on taste!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Incorporate Spinach and Cream
Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and heavy cream. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has reached your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This simple yet satisfying pasta dish is perfect as a quick weeknight meal or a more elegant dinner party option.
Tips and Variations:
- Add protein: Enhance this dish by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the meat additions and maintain the delicious vegetarian-friendly recipe.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a fantastic example of a delicious and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking quick dinner ideas without compromising on flavor or nutritional value. Enjoy!