Tired of takeout and craving something delicious yet easy? This recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, will become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. We’re making Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta – a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dish that's bursting with flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, delivering a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag!
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta: A Quick & Easy Dinner Recipe
This recipe is your answer to quick dinner ideas, delivering a healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes. It's a simple yet elegant pasta dish, featuring fresh spinach and a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Let's get cooking!
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:
-
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.
-
Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, 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.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and heavy cream (or coconut cream). Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
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.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach: This prevents the sauce from becoming too watery.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato and Spinach Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Mushroom Tomato and Spinach Pasta: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
- Lemon Tomato and Spinach Pasta: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on pasta type and additions)
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This delicious and easy Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is a fantastic addition to your food recipes collection. It’s a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and satisfying, delivering a healthy and delicious meal every time. Enjoy this best recipe and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!