This delightful Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is perfect for quick meals, ready in under 20 minutes. Packed with fresh flavors, this dish showcases juicy cherry tomatoes and vibrant spinach, making it a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 18 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays.
- Fresh Ingredients: The combination of spinach and tomatoes brings a burst of freshness to your plate.
- Versatile Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or serve it as a light vegetarian meal—it’s adaptable to any occasion.
- Flavorful: With garlic and basil enhancing the taste, every bite is rich in flavor without being overwhelming.
- Healthy Option: Low in calories yet high in nutrients, this pasta dish is both satisfying and wholesome.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping garlic and tomatoes quick and easy.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing vegetables without damaging your counters.
Ingredients
For this delicious Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pasta
- 8oz (220 grams) pasta
For the Sauce
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 9oz (250 grams) cherry tomatoes, cut into halves
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
- ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
For the Greens
- 5oz (150 grams) baby spinach
For Serving
- ¼ heaped cup (30 grams) grated parmesan cheese
- Grated parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Freshly cracked pepper (for topping)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
How to Make Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with water and place over high heat until boiling. Once boiling:
1. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
2. Reserve about ½ cup of cooking water before draining the pasta.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
While waiting for the water to boil:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 45-60 seconds).
Step 3: Cook Tomatoes
Add the following to the skillet:
1. Cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
2. Sauté until the skins burst and tomatoes begin releasing their juices; keep stirring to prevent burning garlic.
Step 4: Add Spinach
Once tomatoes break down:
1. Add spinach by large handfuls into the skillet.
2. Stir until wilted but still bright green (takes about a couple of minutes).
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
When tomatoes have created a sauce-like mixture:
1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Toss with Pasta
Add cooked pasta to the skillet:
1. Include parmesan cheese and a splash of reserved pasta cooking water.
2. Toss until everything is well combined; use just enough water to keep it moist.
Step 7: Serve
Plate your dish:
1. Top with additional grated parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach!
How to Serve Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.
This delightful pasta dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the pasta beautifully.
Add Grilled Chicken or Turkey
- For a protein boost, top your pasta with grilled chicken or turkey slices. This addition not only enhances the dish but also makes it more filling.
Serve with Garlic Bread
- Warm garlic bread is a delightful side that pairs perfectly with the juicy tomatoes and spinach in your pasta dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Finishing your plate with fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of color and flavor, making the dish even more appealing.
Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction
- A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a sweet tanginess that contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the pasta.
How to Perfect Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.
To ensure your Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.
Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of your olive oil can significantly enhance the overall taste of the dish. Choose extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta until just al dente ensures it retains its texture and holds up well when combined with the sauce.
Don’t Overcook Spinach: Adding spinach towards the end keeps it vibrant and packed with nutrients. Sauté just until wilted.
Reserve Pasta Water: Saving some cooking water helps create a silky sauce when combined with other ingredients, ensuring everything adheres well.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed for optimal flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.
Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make for a refreshing complement to your pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition to your meal while being easy to prepare.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a hearty option that pairs well without overpowering the pasta.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic is an excellent appetizer that mirrors flavors in your main dish.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the pasta.
Cucumber Dill Salad: A cool salad featuring cucumbers, dill, yogurt (or a vegan alternative), provides a refreshing touch alongside warm pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pasta with tomatoes and spinach can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Always follow the cooking time on the package for al dente pasta. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses its texture.
- Burning the Garlic: Sauté garlic on medium-low heat to avoid burning it. Burnt garlic can make your dish taste bitter.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Taste your sauce before serving. Adding salt and pepper gradually helps enhance flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- Using Cold Spinach: Add spinach gradually to ensure it wilts properly. Cold spinach can cool down your dish and affect its overall warmth.
- Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water: Reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water helps bind the sauce and adjust consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pasta in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-5 days for best flavor.
Freezing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Best if consumed within 1-2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach:
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. Nutritional yeast is a great option for adding cheesy flavor.
What can I add for extra protein?
Consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or beans to boost protein content while keeping it delicious.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen spinach works well; just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
Pasta with tomatoes and spinach takes about 18 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick meals.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s versatile too; you can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Give this recipe a try for a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and easy!
Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach
Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings fresh flavors to your table in just 18 minutes. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes and tender spinach, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or casual gatherings. With its simplicity and versatility, you can enjoy it as a light vegetarian meal or enhance it with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein. The fragrant garlic and basil elevate the taste, making every bite satisfying without overwhelming your palate. This pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also low in calories yet high in nutrients—ideal for those seeking a wholesome meal.
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8oz (220g) pasta
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 9oz (250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ tsp dried basil
- 5oz (150g) baby spinach
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook pasta in boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of cooking water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper; cook until tomatoes burst and release juices.
- Stir in spinach until wilted but bright green.
- Mix in drained pasta along with reserved cooking water and parmesan cheese; toss to combine.
- Serve topped with additional parmesan cheese and freshly cracked pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 290g)
- Calories: 288
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 6mg