Description
Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, wholesome, and nutrient-rich meal combining fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and easy dish bursts with fresh flavors and textures, making it ideal for weekday dinners or relaxed weekend lunches. Adaptable for various diets, it delivers a colorful, satisfying experience that delights both eyes and palate.
Ingredients
																
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			Pasta & Vegetables
- 200g pasta of choice (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese & Herbs (Optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water for later.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to release its aromatic flavor.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add diced fresh tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and develop the sauce.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes, blending it with the tomato sauce to create a fresh, vibrant texture.
- Combine with Pasta: Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the spinach tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a spoonful or two of reserved pasta water to loosen it gently.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top just before serving to enhance flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes for optimal flavor and sauce texture.
- Don’t overcook the spinach to keep it bright and tender; add it just before combining with pasta.
- Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce and pasta together with natural starches for a silky texture.
- Garlic and pasta water together create layers of flavor that elevate the dish beyond simple tastes.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and brightness of all ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: spinach pasta, tomato pasta, healthy pasta recipe, quick vegetarian pasta, gluten-free pasta dish, easy weeknight dinner