Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Creamy Tomato & Spinach Pasta recipe is your new go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be, delivering delicious dishes effortlessly. Get ready to elevate your easy recipes game!
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 (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 cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing 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). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy tomato 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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Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture. Follow package directions carefully.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach: This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the sauce as you go and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Variations:
- Add protein: Chicken, sausage, or chickpeas would be delicious additions to this pasta dish.
- Different vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Creamy pesto pasta: Substitute the tomato sauce with pesto for a vibrant twist on this classic.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Fat: Around 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This Creamy Tomato & Spinach Pasta is a fantastic example of how healthy meals can also be quick and easy. It's a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy. This recipe is an excellent addition to your collection of best recipes, providing a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of homemade cooking. Enjoy!