SPINACH TOMATO PASTA EASY

Craving something vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy to whip up, even on the busiest weeknight? Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked pasta coated in a luscious tomato sauce, studded with fresh spinach, and bursting with savory goodness – that’s Spinach Tomato Pasta! Get ready to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also good for you; I promise, it’ll become a new favorite.

The Heart of the Dish: What You’ll Need

Pasta Perfection

• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)

Saucy Goodness

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick!)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Green Goodness

• 5 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

Finishing Touches

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Prep Like a Pro: Before You Start Cooking

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s get everything organized! This makes cooking so much smoother. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While that’s heating up, chop your garlic and spinach. Open your cans of tomatoes and measure out your spices. Having everything ready to go will make this a breeze! When it comes to Garlic Parmesan Pasta Heaven, or even a simple Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta, preparation is also key! Knowing your ingredients are ready to go gives you time to relax and enjoy cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Cooking the Pasta

1. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Making the Sauce

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can ruin the whole dish!
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3. Stir in the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Bringing It All Together

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
2. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves (if using) and extra Parmesan cheese.

Troubleshooting Tips: Because Things Don’t Always Go as Planned

Okay, let’s be real. Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

• Sauce Too Thick? This is where that reserved pasta water comes in handy! Add a little at a time until you reach the perfect consistency.
• Sauce Too Acidic? A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Spinach Getting Mushy? Make sure you add the spinach at the very end and only cook it until it’s just wilted. Overcooked spinach can get slimy.

Also, remember that Tomato Zucchini Pasta can be very similar, and adjusting your sauce will work similarly!

Variations: Let’s Get Creative!

This Spinach Tomato Pasta is delicious as is, but feel free to get creative and add your own personal touch! It’s easy to make Recipes For Dinner Easy Healthy when you start with a solid base.

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would be great additions. Just think of it as a cousin to Zucchini Tomato Pasta and Chicken And Zucchini Pasta.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a splash of cream at the end for a creamier sauce.
• Add Some Cheese: Consider fresh mozzarella or feta cheese for extra flavor. You might like to try Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta if you like that combination.

Make It a Meal: Sides and Pairings

This Spinach Tomato Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Classic and always a winner.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
• Soup: A light soup like minestrone or tomato soup.

Making Ahead and Storage: Perfect for Busy Weeknights

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s great for meal prepping! The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it and add the cooked pasta and spinach when you’re ready to eat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it one of those Meals That Last 2 Days, which is fantastic for busy schedules. For Easy Yummy Healthy Dinners, this is a great way to go! I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the pasta and spinach can become mushy when thawed.

Nutritional Information: Good for Your Body and Soul

Spinach Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Spinach is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and antioxidants. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which has been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers. This dish is also a good source of fiber and carbohydrates, providing you with sustained energy. Of course, the nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and your portion size. Remember to enjoy this in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Pasta Dish

So there you have it – a simple, delicious, and healthy Spinach Tomato Pasta recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, this dish is sure to please. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking, my friend!