Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. It's a simple yet satisfying dish, ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch. This recipe offers a fantastic way to incorporate homemade cooking into your routine, even if you're short on time. Get ready to discover one of the best recipes for a quick and healthy dinner!
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
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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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.
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Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it will become bitter.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and heavy cream (or coconut cream). Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), if using. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key! It should be firm to the bite.
- Salt the pasta water generously: This seasons the pasta from the inside out.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil adds a bright, vibrant flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer time or use less pasta water.
Variations:
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas would be delicious additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Add vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would be great additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a simple, delicious, and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. Enjoy this easy recipe, and don't hesitate to experiment with different variations to create your own perfect version! This recipe is a testament to how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. It's one of the best recipes for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal without sacrificing your valuable time.