This tomato spinach pasta is a quick and yummy dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With fresh tomatoes and vibrant spinach, it’s colorful and full of flavor!
I love how easy it is to whip up in just one pot. Plus, it makes for a great way to sneak in some greens. Who knew dinner could be this fun? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This recipe calls for penne, which holds the sauce nicely. If you’re out, other short pasta like rigatoni or farfalle work well too. Gluten-free pasta is also a great substitute if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and juiciness. If you can’t find them, use chopped regular tomatoes. Just remember, the riper, the better!
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is essential here for flavor and nutrition. If you have baby kale or Swiss chard, those can be good substitutes too. Frozen spinach will work, but be sure to thaw and drain it well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano gives a nice kick. Nutritional yeast is an excellent option for a dairy-free choice.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Pasta?
Cooking pasta might seem straightforward, but getting it just right is key for any dish. The goal is al dente, meaning it should be cooked but still firm to the bite.
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This helps to season the pasta.
- Add the penne and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the package for cooking time and set a timer.
- Sample the pasta a minute or two before it’s supposed to be done. If it’s firm but tender, drain it and save some of that pasta water for later!
How to Make Delicious Tomato Spinach Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium tomatoes, chopped)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tomato Spinach Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal you can whip up on a busy day or when you want a healthy dish without fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Before you drain the pasta, be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water—this will help with your sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until you see the tomatoes soften and start to release their juicy goodness.
4. Season the Mixture:
If you like a little heat, stir in the red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. This adds flavor to your dish!
5. Add the Spinach:
Next, toss the fresh spinach into the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and vibrant green.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Once the spinach is cooked, add the drained penne pasta directly to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine the pasta with the tomato and spinach mixture. It’s looking delicious!
7. Make the Sauce:
Slowly pour in some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, while tossing the pasta. This will help loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly. You want it creamy but not too watery!
8. Finish with Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste your pasta and adjust seasoning if needed. It should be perfect by now!
9. Serve It Up:
Dish up the pasta immediately. Top each serving with the remaining Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil if you like. Enjoy your tasty Tomato Spinach Pasta!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds extra fiber. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free penne or any short pasta made from rice or lentils. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as gluten-free pasta may have different instructions.
Can I Substitute Frozen Spinach for Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. This helps prevent a watery dish. Use about 2 cups of thawed spinach for a similar effect.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help bring back the creamy sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would make excellent additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the tomatoes to ensure everything is cooked properly.
