I have a soft spot for pasta dishes, especially when they are creamy, delicious, and packed with flavor. Today, I want to share my favorite Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe. This dish is not only easy to make, but it also brings a burst of color and flavor to your dinner table. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a rainy evening, and I needed something comforting. The aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in!
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Servings: 4
Pasta Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work great)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Making this creamy pasta is a breeze. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Spinach
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften. Then, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts. The colors will be vibrant, and the smell will be heavenly!
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Once the vegetables are cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
When the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve a little pasta water. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil if you like. Serve it warm, and watch as everyone digs in!
Why You Will Love Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
This dish is a winner for many reasons. First, it is a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup for me. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it heartier.
The combination of creamy sauce, fresh tomatoes, and spinach makes it a delightful meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those who might not be fans.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Here are some tips I’ve gathered over the years to make this dish even better:
- Pasta Choice: Feel free to use any pasta you prefer. I often switch between penne and fettuccine depending on what I have on hand.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spinach and tomatoes makes a significant difference in flavor. If you can, try to use them instead of frozen.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan is my go-to, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta for a different taste.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Variations of Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
I love how adaptable this recipe is. Here are a few variations I enjoy:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
- Creamy Vegan Version: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan alternative.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Place the pasta in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving of this creamy pasta:
- Calories: Approximately 600
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Pairing Suggestions
To make your meal even more delightful, consider pairing this pasta with:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread for a comforting side.
- A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to complement the creamy flavors.
This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe has become a staple in my home. It’s quick, easy, and satisfies everyone’s cravings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. I hope you give this recipe a try. I would love to hear how it turns out for you! Feel free to share your experiences or any twists you make to the recipe in the comments below.