Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

This delightful Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a quick and nutritious option for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Packed with fresh spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes, this dish is not only vibrant but also bursting with flavor. Whether you are hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this meatless meal will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 18 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a homemade meal without the long wait.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of spinach and cherry tomatoes provides a health boost along with delightful flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a standalone meal or as a side dish for any protein.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home; add your favorite veggies or proteins!
• Easy Cleanup: One pan cooking means less mess and more time to relax after your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools that will make preparing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently; it allows enough space for the pasta to cook evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients together, which helps combine flavors and create a delicious sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, making it easy to mix everything together gently.

Ingredients

This lovely pasta with tomatoes and spinach is ready in less than 20 minutes and it’s packed with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes. It’s delicious, juicy, garlicky, and makes a great meatless meal.

Pasta

• 8oz (220 grams) pasta

Oil & Seasoning

• 1 Tbsp olive oil or extra virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
• ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Vegetables

• 9oz (250 grams) cherry tomatoes, cut into halves
• 5oz (150 grams) baby spinach

Cheese & Garnishes

• ¼ heaped cup (30 grams) grated parmesan cheese
• grated parmesan cheese for serving
• freshly cracked pepper for serving
• extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

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 the package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

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

Step 3: Cook Tomatoes

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Sauté until the skins burst open and they begin releasing their juices. Keep stirring gently over medium-low heat to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Once the tomatoes start breaking down, add the baby spinach in large handfuls. Stir until wilted but still bright green; this should take just a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Combine Flavors

At this point, you’ll notice that the tomatoes have created a nice sauce-like mixture at the bottom of the pan. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Mix Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with grated parmesan cheese and a touch of reserved cooking water. Toss everything together until well combined; use just enough cooking water to achieve your desired moisture level.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Serving pasta with tomatoes and spinach can be a delightful experience. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty main dish or a light side, there are various ways to enhance your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for an aromatic flavor boost.

Include a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Serve grilled chicken slices on top for added protein and texture.
• Chickpeas: Mix in some chickpeas for a vegetarian protein option that complements the dish nicely.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Balsamic Reduction: A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds sweetness and acidity, enhancing the flavors of the pasta.
• Pesto: A spoonful of pesto can elevate the dish with its rich, herby taste.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair your pasta with warm garlic bread for a comforting, classic combo.
• Focaccia: A slice of focaccia can soak up the delicious sauce while adding extra flavor.

How to Perfect Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Perfecting pasta with tomatoes and spinach is all about timing and technique. Follow these tips to create an unforgettable meal.

• Choose the Right Pasta: Use pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or fusilli, for better flavor absorption.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Add spinach towards the end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some cooking water; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without diluting flavor.
• Taste As You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually to ensure every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Pairing side dishes with your pasta can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make a refreshing starter.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a flavorful contrast that complements the pasta well.
3. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp in garlic butter adds richness and pairs beautifully with the pasta’s flavors.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds crunch and creaminess to your meal.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a crispy appetizer that’s easy to prepare.
6. Minestrone Soup: A warm bowl of hearty minestrone soup balances out the meal while adding extra veggies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry dish. Always save some cooking water to help create a flavorful sauce.
• Overcooking the spinach: Cooking spinach too long can turn it mushy. Add it in stages and stir until just wilted for a vibrant color and texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland pasta. Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can ruin the sauce. Opt for fresh or high-quality canned cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Rushing the garlic: Burning garlic can make it bitter. Sauté it gently until fragrant, but avoid browning it for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a little reserved pasta water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach that might help you during preparation.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While this recipe is great with any shape of pasta, whole wheat or gluten-free options also work well.

How do I make Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach vegan?

Simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. The flavor will still be delicious!

What can I add for extra protein?

Consider adding cooked chickpeas, white beans, or grilled chicken for added protein without compromising the dish’s essence.

How do I store leftover Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is not only quick but also packed with flavors that everyone will enjoy. It’s versatile too! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!