Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also quick and easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will transport your taste buds to a realm of culinary delight. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor, making it a go-to for homemade cooking enthusiasts and beginners alike. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
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, 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 about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and heavy cream (or coconut cream). Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 3-5 minutes, until the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it 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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Season and Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta:
- 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 watery.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or more Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
- Make it ahead: This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will actually deepen overnight!
Variations:
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp would be delicious additions to this dish.
- Use different vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would add more flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. It’s a great example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of delicious dishes and best recipes. Enjoy!