Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy this quick and easy Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta, perfect for any weeknight dinner!
This Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors that comes together in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy meal with friends!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes create a vibrant dish
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy nights
- Comforting and satisfying, perfect for pasta lovers
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When you're pressed for time but still want to enjoy a hearty meal, this Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta is your go-to recipe. With minimal prep and cook time, it allows you to whip up a satisfying dinner in just 30 minutes. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not only delicious but visually appealing as well, making it a great choice for family dinners or even entertaining guests.
This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily substitute the pasta with whole grain or gluten-free varieties to suit dietary preferences. Additionally, the sauce can be customized by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms, ensuring that it can cater to everyone’s tastes and nutritional needs.
Nutritional Benefits
Spinach and tomatoes are not just flavorful additions; they are nutritional powerhouses that provide numerous health benefits. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and well-being. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are packed with lycopene, known for its heart-protective properties.
Moreover, this pasta dish is a great source of carbohydrates, providing the energy you need for your busy day. By incorporating fresh ingredients, you're not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting the nutritional profile of your meal. This makes it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying their favorite comfort food.
Easy Storage and Meal Prep
If you love meal prepping, this Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta is ideal for preparing in advance. You can cook the pasta and sauce separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat and combine. The flavors tend to meld beautifully, making leftovers even tastier.
For those who like to freeze meals, this dish holds up well in the freezer too. Just ensure the pasta is slightly undercooked before freezing to maintain the right texture upon reheating. With this recipe, you can enjoy a homemade, nutritious meal any day of the week with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 300g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Salt for boiling water
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g canned diced tomatoes
- 200g fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Enjoy your delicious pasta!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Spinach
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your delicious spinach tomato pasta!
Cooking Tips
To elevate the flavors of your Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the taste, giving your dish a burst of freshness.
Always taste your sauce as it simmers. Adjust the seasoning to your liking before adding the pasta. This ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced and tailored to your palate.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pasta with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the dish. A slice of garlic bread can also be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. This not only adds protein but also enhances the overall flavor profile, making it a satisfying dish for any occasion.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Adding cooked sausage or ground turkey can introduce a savory element that pairs beautifully with the spinach and tomatoes. Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, you can add chickpeas for added protein and texture.
If you’re a cheese lover, try mixing in different types of cheese such as feta or mozzarella for a rich and creamy texture. Each variation opens up new possibilities while still keeping the essence of this delicious dish intact.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the sauce.
→ What other types of pasta can I use?
You can use any type of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or gluten-free options.
→ Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are great additions.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
Enjoy this quick and easy Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta, perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Created by: Natalie Warren
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Pasta
- 300g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Salt for boiling water
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g canned diced tomatoes
- 200g fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 12g