Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a lifesaver for busy cooks and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s bursting with fresh flavors, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner idea, this recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you! Get ready to add this one to your collection of best recipes!
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 or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and 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: 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.
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Add spinach and cream: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and heavy cream (or coconut cream). Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is heated through and the sauce is creamy.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Stir in cheese and season: Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture in this dish.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach: This will prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat, or more salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas to the sauce. This makes for a complete and balanced healthy meal.
Variations:
- Mushroom Creamy Tomato Pasta: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy twist.
- Sun-dried Tomato Pasta: Add a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor.
- Creamy Tomato and Vegetable Pasta: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is a simple yet satisfying example of easy recipes and delicious dishes you can make at home. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a family meal, or even a casual get-together. Enjoy this homemade cooking experience!