This delicious spinach tomato pasta is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors, making it a quick and healthy meal option for any day of the week.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and nutrition.
- Tomatoes provide a juicy burst of flavor.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
A Flavorful Combination
The blend of fresh spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a delightful medley that tantalizes the taste buds. Spinach, known for its vibrant green color and health benefits, pairs beautifully with the sweet acidity of tomatoes. Together, they not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but also provide an array of nutrients, making this pasta not just delicious but also nourishing.
With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that elevates the humble pasta to something extraordinary. The garlic adds a fragrant depth, while the olive oil ties it all together, creating a luscious coating for the noodles. This recipe truly exemplifies how simple ingredients can come together to create a memorable meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or need a quick meal after a long day, this Spinach Tomato Pasta fits the bill. Its simplicity means you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The dish is versatile enough to be served as a main course or as a side, complementing grilled chicken or fish beautifully.
Additionally, this pasta is an ideal dish for meal prepping. You can easily make a larger batch and store leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy the same fresh flavors, making your busy schedule a little more manageable.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to substitute the pasta type to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles can be great alternatives. The same goes for the vegetables; you can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Moreover, if you're looking to enhance the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. These additions will provide a heartier meal while still keeping the dish light and refreshing. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your liking.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Spinach Tomato Pasta
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped spinach to the pot, along with the cooked pasta. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the pasta is heated through.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Benefits
This Spinach Tomato Pasta isn't just a treat for the taste buds; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Spinach is a powerhouse leafy green loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting overall health.
Tomatoes contribute significantly with their high antioxidant content, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to numerous health benefits, including heart health. Combined with olive oil, which is rich in healthy fats, this recipe offers a balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul.
Cooking Tips
To achieve the best flavor, make sure to sauté the garlic just long enough to release its aroma without letting it brown, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. Additionally, reserving pasta water is a key tip; it helps to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
When tossing the pasta and vegetables, be gentle to avoid breaking the pasta. If you find that the dish is too dry, adding a little more reserved pasta water can help achieve the desired consistency. Remember, cooking is all about adjusting to your taste, so feel free to experiment!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any pasta works well, but penne or fusilli tend to hold the sauce nicely.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
Created by: Gwendolyn Reed
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Spinach Tomato Pasta
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the chopped spinach to the pot, along with the cooked pasta. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the pasta is heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g