Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and quick weeknight dinner? Look no further! This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to make. Inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of Cleveland, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and impresses even the most discerning palates. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family meal or a casual dinner with friends. Get ready to enjoy this simple yet satisfying homemade cooking experience!
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, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black 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 cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Simmer the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add spinach and cream: Add the thawed and squeezed spinach to the tomato sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 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 sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve the creamy tomato and spinach pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato & Spinach Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the sauce.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach: This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a richer flavor.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the pasta.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the optional meat additions and enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy alternative: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for some of the heavy cream.
- Mushroom delight: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for added earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Fat: 20-25g Protein: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish, and remember to share your culinary creations with us! This healthy meal is a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, offering a delicious and satisfying experience every time. It’s a testament to the joy of homemade cooking, creating delicious dishes effortlessly. This recipe is among the best recipes for its ease of preparation and impressive taste.