Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

This lovely Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is an easy, vibrant meal that can be made in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch, this dish offers a delightful combination of fresh spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes. With its garlicky flavor and beautiful colors, it’s a great meatless option that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 18 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and spinach creates a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish; it pairs well with various proteins or salads.
• Great for Meal Prep: This pasta holds up well, making it an excellent choice for make-ahead lunches.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your delicious pasta with tomatoes and spinach efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the garlic and tomatoes to create the sauce.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta without losing any delicious noodles.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

For the Pasta

• 8oz (220 grams) pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 Tbsp olive oil or extra virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 9oz (250 grams) cherry tomatoes, cut into halves
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
• ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

For the Greens

• 5oz (150 grams) baby spinach

For Serving

• ¼ heaped cup (30 grams) grated parmesan cheese
• Additional grated parmesan cheese
• Freshly cracked pepper
• Extra virgin olive oil

How to Make Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and place over high heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While waiting for the water to boil, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 45-60 seconds).

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes

Add cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked pepper to the skillet. Sauté until tomato skins burst and juices are released. Keep stirring at medium-low heat to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Once tomatoes begin breaking down, add spinach in large handfuls. Stir until wilted but still bright green (this should take just a couple of minutes).

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

By now, your tomatoes should have created a sauce-like mixture in the skillet. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Combine Pasta

Add cooked pasta to the pan along with parmesan cheese and a touch of reserved cooking water. Toss everything together until well coated in sauce. Use just enough cooking water to keep it moist.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach topped with additional grated parmesan cheese, some freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired.

Enjoy this delicious meal that brings together simple ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience!

How to Serve Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

This delightful pasta with tomatoes and spinach can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a gourmet touch, there are plenty of options.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl, topped with extra grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a traditional look.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving to add color and freshness to the dish.

Pair with Grilled Vegetables

• Accompany your pasta with seasonal grilled vegetables for an added flavor dimension and nutrients.

Add Protein

• Include grilled chicken or shrimp on top of the pasta for those who want some protein in their meal.

Create a Pasta Salad

• Allow the pasta to cool and toss it with additional veggies and dressing for a refreshing pasta salad option.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.

How to Perfect Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Perfecting your pasta with tomatoes and spinach is easy when you follow these simple tips. These suggestions will elevate your dish from good to great.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and spinach provide vibrant flavors that dried or canned alternatives cannot match.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Ensure that your pasta is cooked al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, impacting the dish’s texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps create a creamy sauce consistency. Don’t forget to save some before draining!
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper during cooking for the best flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

To complement your delicious pasta with tomatoes and spinach, consider these side dishes that pair beautifully. Each adds its unique flavor profile while keeping the meal light and fresh.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice; perfect for soaking up leftover sauce while adding a crunchy texture.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and balances the meal’s flavors.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender brings an elegant touch to your dinner table.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that echoes the main dish’s ingredients.
5. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that provides extra veggies without overwhelming flavors.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats offers variety and complements the Italian theme beautifully.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are perfect for sharing, adding richness to your meal without being too heavy.
8. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil on toasted bread, this dish adds brightness to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking pasta with tomatoes and spinach can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package directions for al dente texture.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Skipping salt in the water or sauce can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality tomatoes and spinach can affect taste. Opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes and vibrant spinach.
• Ignoring Cooking Water: Discarding all cooking water eliminates a great way to adjust sauce consistency. Reserve some for a perfect finish.
• Rushing the Garlic: Burning garlic leads to bitterness. Sauté it gently until just fragrant, usually 45-60 seconds.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• item Allow leftovers to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• item Enjoy within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pasta with tomatoes and spinach.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any pasta type you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast or another hard cheese if you’re looking for dairy-free options or different flavors.

How do I make Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach gluten-free?

Simply swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta alternatives, ensuring they cook similarly.

Can I add protein to Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be excellent additions for extra protein.

What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Feel free to include zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

This Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is not only quick but also bursting with fresh flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or seasonal vegetables. Try it out today!