Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

This delightful Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a quick, vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. In just under 20 minutes, you can whip up a meal that highlights the fresh flavors of cherry tomatoes and spinach. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals without compromising on flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizes fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes for a nutritious boost.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or pair with your favorite protein for added heartiness.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic, basil, and cheese creates a savory experience that’s hard to resist.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that won’t break the bank while delivering great taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this wonderful Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly without losing any important ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware surfaces.

Ingredients

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
• Extra grated parmesan cheese to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

How to Make Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

Step 1: Cook 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 before draining the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté 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, approximately 45-60 seconds.

Step 3: Cook Tomatoes

Add cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Sauté until the tomato skins burst and they begin releasing their juices. Maintain medium-low heat; stir frequently to prevent burning garlic.

Step 4: Add Spinach

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

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

By now, a sauce-like mixture will form at the bottom of the pan. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Combine Pasta

Add cooked and drained pasta to the skillet along with grated parmesan cheese and a touch of reserved pasta cooking water. Toss everything until well-coated in sauce; use just enough reserved water to keep it moist.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot topped with additional grated parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach!

How to Serve Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Serving Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is simple yet delightful. This dish offers versatility, allowing you to enhance its flavor and presentation based on your preferences.

Add a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can add a hearty component to your pasta.
• Shrimp: Lightly sautéed shrimp pairs well with the fresh tomatoes and spinach.
• Lentils: For a plant-based option, consider adding cooked lentils for extra protein.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped basil or parsley for added freshness.
• Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Chili Flakes: If you enjoy spice, add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully.
• Focaccia: A slice of focaccia can be perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

How to Perfect Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

To make your Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and spinach will elevate the dish’s flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure that the pasta is cooked just right for the best texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keeping some pasta cooking water helps create a creamy sauce consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds a crunchy texture to your meal.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing complements the pasta well.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Mixed seasonal vegetables roasted until tender bring additional flavor to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta dish.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs makes for a delightful appetizer.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of.

• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking pasta for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and aim for al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite.

• Neglecting the Seasoning – Under-seasoning can result in bland pasta. Be sure to taste your dish as you cook and adjust the salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

• Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water – Not saving some pasta cooking water can limit your ability to create a creamy sauce. Always reserve at least half a cup before draining your pasta.

• Adding Spinach Too Early – Adding spinach too soon can make it wilted and lose its vibrant color. Introduce it just before serving so it stays bright green and fresh.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients – Poor-quality tomatoes or olive oil can affect the overall taste of your dish. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• Place cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Enjoy within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave – Transfer pasta to a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a touch of olive oil or water. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s what others often ask about making Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Can I use other types of greens?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with kale or Swiss chard for different flavors and textures.

How can I add protein to Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach?

You can easily include grilled chicken, turkey, or beans for extra protein without changing the essence of the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish holds up well for meal prep, making it perfect for quick lunches throughout the week.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta as a substitute, and enjoy the same delicious flavors without gluten.

Final Thoughts

Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With its fresh ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a delightful lunch. Feel free to customize it by adding proteins or varying vegetables according to your preference!