Spinach and Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, healthful dish that brings the fresh flavors of the garden to your dinner table. This simple yet satisfying meal combines juicy, ripe tomatoes and tender baby spinach with garlic and herbs, tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a vegetarian delight that is light enough for a summer meal yet hearty enough for a winter comfort food. This pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to add proteins like chicken or beans if desired. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal in minutes, highlighting the best flavors that nature has to offer.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne, spaghetti, or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Add the spinach:
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Combine pasta and vegetables:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if necessary to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving dishes. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Spinach and Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine with its simple ingredients and robust flavors. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick and healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy it as is, or customize it with additional ingredients to suit your preference.
