Are you looking for delicious and easy dinner recipes without dairy? Whether you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply exploring dairy-free cooking, you've come to the right place! This blog post offers a fantastic recipe for a creamy, satisfying, and completely dairy-free pasta dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to healthy, homemade meals that are surprisingly easy to make.
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta (Dairy-Free)
This recipe is a testament to how flavorful and satisfying dairy-free cooking can be. It's packed with fresh vegetables, vibrant flavors, and a surprisingly creamy sauce that's entirely dairy-free. It's one of those healthy meals that's both quick and delicious, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes. This recipe also fits perfectly into your quick dinner ideas for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 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 nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces pasta (any shape you like)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, start preparing the sauce.
-
Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, spinach, nutritional yeast, water or broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
-
Combine and Serve: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Follow the package directions carefully to ensure your pasta is cooked al dente.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or oregano depending on your preference.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
Variations:
- Add protein: Include cooked chicken, chickpeas, or lentils for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad for a balanced and nutritious dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-15 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a perfect example of how delicious and easy dairy-free cooking can be. It's a healthy meal, perfect for a busy weeknight, and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy this fantastic addition to your best recipes collection! This quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and experience the joy of homemade cooking without the dairy!