Spinach Tomato Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, look no further! Spinach Tomato Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something that everyone will love.

The beauty of this pasta lies not only in its vibrant flavors but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, satisfying dish that is sure to impress. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a special occasion, this recipe fits the bill beautifully!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just about 50 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. Perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by kids and adults alike. The creamy sauce and fresh spinach make it appealing to everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and just cook the pasta when you’re ready to eat!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and tomatoes, this meal is not only tasty but also good for you.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Spinach Tomato Pasta are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both delicious and nourishing.

For the Pasta

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Freshness

• 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Optional Additions

• Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for extra richness
• Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your taste preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the Cheese: If you want to keep it dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little kick!
• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For an even healthier option, opt for whole wheat pasta to boost fiber content.

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 the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because it releases all those lovely flavors from the garlic without burning it.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth (or water). Give everything a good stir to combine. Next, add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer—this allows all those flavors to blend beautifully. Then reduce heat to low, cover your pot, and let it simmer for about 15-30 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce simmers away happily 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 pasta water before draining; this starchy water will help combine everything later!

Step 4: Combine Spinach with Sauce

Once your sauce has thickened nicely and smells divine, add in the chopped spinach. Stir gently until it’s wilted—this only takes about 1-2 minutes!

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Now it’s time for the fun part! Add your drained pasta into the pot with the sauce and spinach. Toss everything together until well coated. If you find that your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Just add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish It Up

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for that cheesy goodness we all love! If you’re feeling indulgent, now’s also the time to mix in heavy cream or half-and-half if you’re using any. Give it all a taste test—adjust seasoning if needed—and prepare yourself for some serious comfort food.

Step 7: Serve Up Delights

Serve immediately! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and halved cherry tomatoes if you like. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Spinach Tomato Pasta with family or friends!

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

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have some handy tips to make your dish even better!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes can significantly enhance the flavor of your pasta. Fresh ingredients bring vibrant tastes and nutrients that dried or canned options simply can’t match.

• Adjust Seasonings to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the herbs and spices according to your preference. Cooking is all about personalizing flavors, so feel free to add more oregano or basil for an extra kick!

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This Italian cooking technique ensures that your pasta retains a slight firmness, which not only improves texture but also prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Saving a cup of pasta water before draining is essential! This starchy water can be added to the sauce later to achieve the perfect consistency, making it creamy without losing flavor.

• Experiment with Cheese Alternatives: If you’re looking to switch things up, try using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option that still packs a cheesy punch.

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

Presenting your Spinach Tomato Pasta beautifully can make even a simple weeknight meal feel special. Here are some ideas on how to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding whole basil leaves on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also infuses additional freshness into each bite.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds a dash of spice and sophistication, making your dish even more inviting.
• Lemon Zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top adds a burst of brightness and complements the tomato’s acidity beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread makes for an irresistible pairing with pasta. Its buttery flavor complements the dish perfectly.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with assorted greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a colorful side dish that balances the meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds both color and health benefits. Plus, its mild flavor pairs harmoniously with your creamy tomato sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress your family or guests with your delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta while keeping things healthy! Enjoy every bite!

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 store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool down completely after cooking.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To avoid sogginess, consider freezing without the cream (if using) and adding it when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Spinach Tomato Pasta without cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be tasty and satisfying.

How long does Spinach Tomato Pasta last in the fridge?

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Is Spinach Tomato Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, making weeknight meals much simpler!

Can I add other vegetables to Spinach Tomato Pasta?

Certainly! Feel free to include any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. They will add extra flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Spinach Tomato Pasta as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste. Happy cooking!