One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

A weeknight revelation, this One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta offers comfort and convenience in every bite. If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying dish that the whole family will love, you’ve found it! With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings or cozy gatherings. Plus, it only requires one pot for cooking, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

What makes this dish special is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta delivers nourishing goodness without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With everything cooked in one pot, there’s little fuss and fewer dishes to wash.
• Family-friendly: The blend of spinach and tomatoes makes it nutritious while still appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: This pasta holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients creates a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add extras based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this delightful One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 14 oz penne pasta
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 5-6 oz fresh spinach (about 5-6 cups packed)
• Optional garnishes: freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, extra drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice

Variations

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

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Change the greens: Swap out spinach for kale or arugula depending on what you have on hand.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or plant-based cream towards the end for a richer sauce.

How to Make One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to prep all your ingredients. Dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic. Open your tomato cans and measure out the chicken stock. Set aside your pasta, spinach, and seasonings so everything is ready when you need it!

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent. This step is important because sautéing brings out the sweetness of the onions and lays a flavorful foundation for your dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Now it’s time to add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir continuously for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant—just be careful not to burn the garlic! This step infuses your dish with aromatic flavors that will make everyone’s mouth water.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes

Pour in both crushed tomatoes and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir everything together well and let it simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes so those delicious flavors meld together.

Step 5: Add Chicken Stock and Pasta

Next, stir in the chicken stock. Then add your penne pasta, ensuring it’s submerged by pressing down gently with a spoon. This step is crucial as it allows the pasta to cook evenly while absorbing all those wonderful flavors from the sauce.

Step 6: Cook Until Al Dente

Increase the heat to bring everything to a boil, then reduce it back down to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook while stirring every few minutes for about 10–15 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on it—this helps prevent sticking!

Step 7: Season Your Sauce

Once your pasta is cooked just right, stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Taste your sauce here; adjusting seasonings can elevate your dish even further!

Step 8: Add Fresh Spinach

Gently fold in fresh spinach until it wilts down—this usually takes about 1–2 minutes. If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s also a great time to mix in halved cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor!

Step 9: Final Adjustments

Give everything one last taste before serving! Adjust any seasonings as needed—maybe more salt or even a squeeze of lemon juice—to balance acidity perfectly.

Step 10: Serve It Up

Ladle generous portions into serving bowls while hot! Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves if desired. A drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice adds an extra touch before serving immediately!

Enjoy this comforting One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta with loved ones—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve to elevate your dish!

• Prep Ahead of Time: Preparing all your ingredients before you start cooking helps streamline the process, making it quicker and more enjoyable without the stress of scrambling for items mid-recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes. Fresh produce adds vibrant flavor and nutrients that can really enhance the overall taste of your pasta.

• Adjust the Heat: Cooking on medium heat allows for even cooking and prevents burning. Remember, a gentle simmer is key to achieving perfectly tender pasta without sticking.

• Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to taste your dish at various stages. Adjusting seasonings to your preference ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, making the meal truly satisfying.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your pasta by adding in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or proteins such as chickpeas or white beans for added heartiness and nutrition.

How to Serve One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Serving this One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is all about making it appealing and inviting! Here are some ideas to present this delicious dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor profile.
• Extra Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving brings richness and depth to each bowl.
• Squeeze of Lemon Juice: A dash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this pasta, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce while adding a delightful crunch.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the hearty pasta nicely and offers a great balance.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional texture and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal experience with their caramelized flavors.
• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus not only adds a touch of green but also contributes valuable vitamins and minerals to your dinner plate.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re ready to dive into an unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy every flavorful bite of this comforting One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is perfect for meal prep! Its robust flavors only get better as it sits, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal ready to go. Here’s how to store and enjoy your pasta leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best eaten within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and freshness.
• If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just make sure to label the containers with the date.
• Portioning into single servings can make it easier to thaw and reheat.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of liquid (like chicken stock or water) to the pan and warm over low heat until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl; cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use other types of pasta for One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta?

Yes! While penne works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta used.

How do I adjust the spice level in One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta?

You can easily customize the spice level by omitting the red pepper flakes or adding more based on your preference. For a milder version, consider adding sweet bell peppers instead.

Can I make One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit any cheese garnishes. You can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!

What should I serve with One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta?

This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up any sauce left in your bowl.

How long does it take to prepare One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta?

The total time from start to finish is around 50 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta as much as I do! It’s not just about convenience; it’s about bringing comfort and joy into your kitchen with every bite. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!