Spinach Tomato Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, you’ve come to the right place! This Spinach Tomato Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a cozy meal for one, this pasta dish checks all the boxes—it’s vibrant, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to whip up!

I love how the fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition to the rich tomato sauce. Plus, it comes together in just about 50 minutes! You can easily make it ahead of time for gatherings or simply enjoy it as a delightful weeknight treat. Trust me, you’ll be making this recipe again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and delicious flavors, even picky eaters will love it!
• Nutrient-Packed: Fresh spinach not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize it with whatever pasta shape you have on hand or add extra veggies.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve—just as good the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything here easy to source and likely already in your pantry or fridge. Perfect for creating that delicious spinach tomato pasta!

For the Pasta Dish

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for extra richness
• Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the Pasta Shape: Use your favorite shape—whole wheat or gluten-free options work wonderfully too!
• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added color and texture.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using nutritional yeast for a vegan option instead of Parmesan.
• Make It Spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced jalapeños.

How to Make Spinach Tomato Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat your olive oil. When it’s shimmering beautifully, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sautéing them together releases wonderful aromas that will set the stage for your sauce—just be careful not to let them burn!

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth (or water). Stir everything together so that all those lovely flavors mingle. Then sprinkle in your dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; once it’s bubbling delightfully, reduce the heat to low. Cover that pot up and let it simmer away for 15-30 minutes while you cook your pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce is working its magic on the stove, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining! This little trick will help adjust your sauce later.

Step 4: Combine Spinach with Sauce

Once your sauce has simmered nicely and thickened up a bit, it’s time to add in that fresh spinach. Stir it into the pot until it’s wilted—this should only take about 1-2 minutes. The vibrant green will look beautiful against that rich red sauce!

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add your cooked pasta into the pot with the sauce and spinach. Toss everything gently so that each piece is coated with that scrumptious sauce. If you find that it’s too thick (which can happen), don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted into that deliciously creamy goodness. If you’re feeling indulgent, now’s the time to mix in heavy cream or half-and-half for an extra touch of richness. Give it all a taste test and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve immediately while it’s warm! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and halved cherry tomatoes if you’re using them for an added pop of color. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Tomato Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Cooking this dish is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your Spinach Tomato Pasta to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes (or high-quality canned tomatoes) will enhance the flavor of your dish, giving it a vibrant taste that dried ingredients simply can’t match.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy heat, feel free to up the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit them entirely. Personalizing the spice level makes the dish more enjoyable for everyone.

• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: Remember to save some pasta cooking water! It’s starchy and can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor, helping everything blend beautifully.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan is delightful, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.

• Make It a Meal Prep Winner: This pasta keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

How to Serve Spinach Tomato Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Presenting your Spinach Tomato Pasta beautifully can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas for serving it up that will impress family and friends alike!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the tomato sauce perfectly.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat, offering extra crushed red pepper on the side allows guests to customize their plates.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens the flavors, adding freshness and vibrancy.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! Its crunchy texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta sauce and is perfect for mopping up leftovers.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add depth and color to your meal while providing additional nutrients.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Simple steamed greens give an extra dose of vitamins while balancing out the richness of the pasta dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Spinach Tomato Pasta will not only taste amazing but also look fabulous on any table! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some practical tips on how to store and preserve this tasty dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.
• To keep the pasta from drying out, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth when storing.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion individual servings in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel, heating in short intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful dish!

Can I make Spinach Tomato Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze portions for later.

How can I adjust the recipe for Spinach Tomato Pasta?

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap in different types of pasta based on your preference!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen spinach works well; just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

What can I serve with Spinach Tomato Pasta?

This pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Certainly! You can omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative, and skip the heavy cream for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Spinach Tomato Pasta! It’s not just a meal; it’s an opportunity to create something delicious and nourishing. This recipe shines with its simplicity and flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite additions. Happy cooking!