Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is one of those simple recipes that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Picture this: fresh tomatoes bursting with flavor, tender spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed together in a light, delicious sauce. It’s hard to believe such a satisfying meal can come together in just a little over 20 minutes, but it does! Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish feels both effortless and special. The vibrant colors make it appealing to the eye, while the fresh ingredients compliment each other wonderfully. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. So grab your ingredients, and let’s cook up something truly tasty together!

Why This Recipe Works

First and foremost, this recipe shines because of its fresh ingredients. The combination of tomatoes and spinach not only creates a beautiful dish but also brings out the vivid flavors of each component. Cherry tomatoes provide a sweet, juicy burst while the spinach adds a slightly earthy note. Then there’s the quick prep time! You can have a delicious meal ready in just over 20 minutes. This makes it ideal for busy days or when you want something tasty without much fuss. Finally, this dish checks all the boxes for nutrition and flavor. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for those who care about health without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

You’ll love how the simple ingredients bring such a punch of flavor. Garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of cheese elevate this dish effortlessly. It’s versatile, too! Serve it for lunch, dinner, or even as a quick snack when those cravings hit. The meal can be customized for different dietary needs, making it perfect for families or groups with various preferences. Whether you want to keep things vegetarian or add protein, this dish works with you. And who doesn’t love a meal that feels like a treat while being easy to prepare?

Ingredients

• 8 oz (220 grams) pasta
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 9 oz (250 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp fine salt (plus more to taste)
• ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 5 oz (150 grams) baby spinach
• ¼ heaped cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Freshly cracked pepper (for serving)
• Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

Perfecting the Cooking Water

Prepare Your Pasta

Start by filling a large pot with water and placing it over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you choose. Before draining, don’t forget to reserve about ½ cup of that precious cooking water!

Sautéing the Flavor Base

Now, let’s get your flavor base ready. Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the minced garlic, sautéing for about 45-60 seconds. You want it to become fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn—that would change the taste completely!

Building the Tomato Sauce

Once the garlic is ready, it’s time to make your sauce! Add in the halved cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Continue to sauté everything, allowing the tomato skins to burst and release their juices. Keep the heat medium-low; you want the tomatoes to soften without turning into mush.

Incorporating Spinach

Now comes the vibrant green part! Gradually add the baby spinach to the skillet, tossing in a handful at a time. You’ll want to stir until it wilts but still retains that beautiful bright color—this should only take a couple of minutes.

Combining Pasta with the Sauce

Once your tomatoes and spinach come together in a lovely, saucy mixture, it’s time to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Then, add the drained pasta and the grated Parmesan cheese to the pan along with a splash of the reserved cooking water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce, making sure each noodle gets a bit of that garlicky goodness!

Serving It Up

Serve your delicious creation immediately. Top it with more grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It’s all about those finishing touches that elevate your dish!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing your pasta with garlic bread or a refreshing side salad. You could also serve it alongside grilled vegetables for a heartier option. It’s a great way to turn a simple dish into a balanced feast.

Tips for Success

To truly make the most of this recipe, always use fresh ingredients. They make a significant difference in flavor and nutrition. Feel free to adjust the quantities of garlic or tomatoes based on what you love most. And remember, always reserve that cooking water—it’s the secret to achieving the perfect pasta texture.

Variations

If you’re looking for a gluten-free dish, simply substitute in gluten-free pasta. To make it more filling, add grilled chicken or shrimp. You can even experiment with different greens—kale or arugula could work nicely too, giving the dish a new twist.

Storage Tips

Should you have leftovers (though they are unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop. If it seems a bit dry, just add a splash of water for moisture.

FAQs

Can I use dried tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust moisture levels, as dried tomatoes are more concentrated in flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan option, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it with a dairy-free substitute.

What type of pasta works best?

Any type of pasta will do! However, I recommend using penne or fusilli since they hold the sauce beautifully.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and combine it with the pasta when you’re ready to eat.

How can I add more flavor?

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or a bit of lemon zest for brightness.

With its vibrant flavors and straightforward preparation, Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe caters to all culinary skills while delivering delicious results. Enjoy it fresh, paired with your favorite sides, and savor the delightful mix of textures and tastes. Indulging in this meal means appeasing both your hunger and your cravings for wholesome, tasty food!

Print