Are you craving a quick and tasty meal? Look no further! Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta checks all the boxes for a satisfying dish. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. I’ll guide you through easy steps and share tips to make it just right. Plus, you’ll find options for adding protein or making it vegan. Let’s dive in and whip up this delicious, creamy pasta!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Healthy Spinach Addition: With three cups of fresh baby spinach, this recipe adds a nutritious green element without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Pasta Choice: Penne or fettuccine can be used, allowing you to customize the dish to your pasta preference.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 12 oz. pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Nutritional Information
This creamy tomato spinach pasta is full of flavor and nutrition. Each serving provides a good balance of carbs, protein, and fats. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 550
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
The heavy cream adds richness, while the spinach boosts vitamins.
Possible Substitutions
You can easily adjust ingredients to fit your needs. Here are some great swaps:
- Pasta: Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Cream: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan version.
- Cheese: Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
- Spinach: Kale or arugula works if you prefer a different green.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a new twist to the flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on what you have at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by filling a large pot with salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz. of pasta, like penne or fettuccine. Cook according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is al dente, save 1 cup of the cooking water. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sautéing the Garlic
In the same pot, add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Next, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute. Stir often until the garlic smells great but does not brown. This step builds a strong base for flavor.
Preparing the Sauce
Carefully pour in 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to mix it with the garlic. Increase the heat slightly and let it simmer gently. Keep it simmering for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Then, add 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. Mix it well. Now, add 3 cups of fresh baby spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Then, add the drained pasta back into the pot. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's thickness.
Adding Cheese and Seasoning
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it melts and the sauce is creamy. Taste the dish and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as desired. This step enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Plate the creamy pasta in warm bowls. Finish it with fresh basil leaves on top. For a fancier touch, add more grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. A drizzle of olive oil can also add richness. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Creamy Texture
To get that perfect creamy texture, start with heavy cream. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. When you add it, lower the heat. This helps prevent the cream from curdling. Stir gently as you mix in the cream and spices. If the sauce is too thick, use a little pasta water. This helps it blend nicely. A little water goes a long way!
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream. This helps bring back the creamy texture. Stir often to heat it evenly.
Pairing with Side Dishes
This creamy tomato spinach pasta pairs well with many side dishes. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is also a great match, giving a nice crunch. For a lighter option, serve with steamed vegetables. You can also try a light soup, like minestrone, for a warm touch. Each of these sides enhances the meal and pleases the palate!
Pro Tips
- Perfect Pasta Texture: To achieve al dente pasta, taste it a minute or two before the package cooking time is up. It should be firm to the bite yet cooked through.
- Fresh Herb Boost: For an aromatic twist, add fresh basil or oregano towards the end of cooking instead of dried. This enhances the flavor profile significantly.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: To prevent the sauce from separating, make sure to stir in the cream over low heat and avoid boiling after adding it.
- Garnish for Visual Appeal: Always garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Variations
Adding Protein: Chicken, Shrimp, or Tofu
You can add protein to your creamy tomato spinach pasta for a heartier meal. Chicken works great. Just cook it in the pot before adding garlic. Shrimp is another tasty option. Sauté it for a few minutes until pink. If you prefer a plant-based option, tofu is perfect. Press it to remove water, then cube and sauté until golden.
Making it Vegan
To make this dish vegan, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for that cheesy flavor. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. They add flavor and texture.
Using Different Pasta Shapes
Feel free to use any pasta shape you love. Penne and fettuccine are great, but rotini or farfalle work well too. Different shapes hold the sauce differently, which can change your experience. Try whole grain or gluten-free pasta for healthier options. Each type brings its own twist to the dish.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After making creamy tomato spinach pasta, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. It will last for about three to four days in the fridge. When storing, try to remove as much air as possible to keep it fresh.
Freezing the Dish
You can freeze this pasta, but the cream may change texture. To freeze, let it cool and then store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to two months in the freezer. When ready to eat, defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, warm it gently on the stove. Add a splash of water or extra cream to keep it creamy. Stir often to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your creamy dish again without losing flavor!
FAQs
How do I make creamy tomato spinach pasta from scratch?
To make creamy tomato spinach pasta, you need to follow these steps:
1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water. Add 12 oz. of pasta and cook until al dente.
2. Sauté the garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the same pot. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant.
3. Make the sauce: Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add cream and spinach: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Add 3 cups of fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the drained pasta with the sauce. If thick, add reserved pasta water.
6. Finish with cheese: Mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season to taste.
This dish is quick and packed with flavor.
Can I use whole grain or gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta in this dish. The cooking time may vary, so follow the package instructions. Whole grain pasta adds more fiber, while gluten-free pasta caters to dietary needs. Both options will still pair well with the creamy sauce.
What herbs work best with this recipe?
I recommend using dried basil and oregano. These herbs enhance the tomato flavor. Fresh basil is also great for garnish. You can experiment with thyme or parsley for a different taste. Just remember to adjust the amounts to suit your palate.
How do I adjust the recipe for larger servings?
To make larger servings, simply double or triple the ingredients. Keep the same ratios. For example, use 24 oz. of pasta, 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, and 2 cups of cream. Make sure your pot is big enough to hold all the ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them when you're ready to serve. For best results, store the sauce and pasta in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
This blog post covered everything you need for creamy tomato spinach pasta. We explored key ingredients, their nutrition, and substitutions. You learned step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for perfect results. We also looked at tasty variations and storage options for leftovers.
In the end, this dish is simple and fun to make. With a few changes, it can suit any diet or taste. Enjoy cooking, and remember to get creative with new flavors!
