This Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta is a perfect blend of flavors, showcasing the freshness of spinach and tomatoes combined with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s quick, easy, and can be made in just 30 minutes!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten your day
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Healthy and nutritious, packed with vitamins
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to weeknight dinners, ease and flavor are key. This Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta hits all the right notes. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, you can have a wholesome meal on your table in under 30 minutes. The simple yet vibrant ingredients ensure that you can enjoy a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it's also incredibly satisfying. The combination of al dente pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful texture and taste that appeals to both adults and kids alike. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite protein or additional vegetables, making it versatile for every taste.
Health Benefits of Spinach and Tomatoes
Spinach and tomatoes are not just delicious; they are also packed with numerous health benefits. Spinach is a superfood rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Incorporating spinach into your meals can help boost your immune system and maintain healthy skin and hair.
Tomatoes, on the other hand, are a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to many health benefits, including heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is not only tasty but also contributes to a balanced diet, making this pasta a guilt-free pleasure.
Customizing Your Pasta Dish
One of the great things about this Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta, to cater to your dietary preferences. Additionally, you can throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.
For those looking to add protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. You can also enhance the flavor profile by adding herbs like basil or oregano. With a few simple tweaks, this recipe can easily be transformed to suit your cravings or dietary needs, making it a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
- 200g pasta (your choice)
- 150g fresh spinach
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth experience.
Cooking 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.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until they soften.
Add Spinach
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Serve
Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy your meal with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner experience.
Tips for the Best Pasta
To achieve perfect pasta, always salt your boiling water generously before adding the noodles. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the pasta is seasoned throughout. Cooking until al dente is key; it allows the pasta to maintain a slight bite, which adds to the overall texture of the dish.
Make sure to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of your sauce, helping it to cling to the pasta beautifully. A little goes a long way, so add it gradually for the best results.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, this pasta dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to help bring back the original texture and flavor.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick meal.
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 before adding to the dish.
→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any pasta works well, but spaghetti or penne are great choices.
→ Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just 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. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta
- 200g pasta (your choice)
- 150g fresh spinach
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated 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 about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until they soften.
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 12g