Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Try this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta recipe.
Try this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta recipe.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 medium garlic cloves finely minced
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
- 8-10 fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 lb (226g.) approx. dried pasta (i used lumaca rigata)
- 1/2 onion finely chopped onion (approx. 1/2cup)
- 5 cups fresh spinach washed and coarsely chopped
- 1 heaping cup grape or cherries tomatoes sliced in half
- approx. 1/2 cup tomato puree (passata)
- 3 to 4 tbs. goat cheese
- Carbohydrate 2.84895 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.16875 g
- Fiber 0.919500013589859 g
- Protein 1.3587 g
- Saturated Fat 0.02763 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (99g)
- Sodium 48.8101432291667 mg
- Sugar 1.92944998641014 g
- Trans Fat 0.063795 g
- Calories 15 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions, draining a couple of minutes before fully cooked.
- Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the onion for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add garlic and cook until onions are translucent.
- Stir in oregano, 1/8 tsp salt, and pepper.
- Add tomato puree and water to thin the sauce. Simmer.
- Add halved grape tomatoes and simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in 3 tablespoons of goat cheese (add more for creaminess).
- Drain the pasta (almost cooked), reserving 1 cup of water.
- Add pasta and some pasta water to the sauce. Cook until al dente, adding more water if needed.
- Adjust seasoning.
- Before serving, add fresh basil and extra goat cheese (optional).
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is my go-to weeknight meal. It's quick, easy, and bursting with flavor – a perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, earthy spinach, and creamy goat cheese. The whole family loves it, and the best part? It's ready in under 30 minutes!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's no need for fancy ingredients or complex techniques. I usually have most of these staples on hand, making it a perfect last-minute meal solution. The combination of fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes provides a vibrant pop of color and nutrition to the dish, while the creamy goat cheese adds a delightful richness that perfectly complements the savory tomato sauce. I often find myself making extra servings because my kids tend to gobble it up so quickly!
What makes this recipe so special is its flexibility. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. I usually opt for a classic shape like lumaca rigata, but penne, rotini, or even spaghetti would work just as well. If you don't have fresh spinach, frozen spinach will also work in a pinch – just make sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce. Similarly, while I prefer using fresh grape tomatoes for their burst of sweetness, canned cherry tomatoes are an excellent substitute if you're short on time.
Another element I love about this dish is the ease of customizing it to your tastes. If you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a richer, more decadent flavor profile, you might consider adding a dollop of cream cheese along with the goat cheese. And if you have some leftover grilled chicken or sausage, feel free to toss it in for added protein.
The key to achieving the perfect creamy texture is to reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. The starch in the water helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a beautifully smooth and creamy consistency that coats the pasta perfectly. Don't be afraid to add more pasta water if your sauce gets too thick. You can always adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency.
This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and uncomplicated cooking. It's a recipe that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness – a comforting and satisfying dish that always feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. It’s a dish that makes you feel good both physically and emotionally. It’s nourishing, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make, leaving you with more time for what really matters – family and relaxation.
I highly recommend making this recipe a part of your regular dinner rotation. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. It's the perfect balance of fresh flavors and comforting textures – a culinary hug in a bowl. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You deserve it! And who knows, you might discover your new favorite weeknight go-to.
Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe offers a fantastic opportunity to introduce your kids to healthy eating. Get them involved in the cooking process – let them help chop the vegetables or stir the sauce. It’s a fun way to bond and instill a love for fresh, wholesome food from a young age. And when they see how simple it is to prepare something so tasty, they’ll be more inclined to try new things. This dish is a winner with even the pickiest eaters!
In conclusion, this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta recipe is a true gem. It's a versatile, easy-to-prepare, and delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. The delightful blend of creamy goat cheese, tangy tomatoes, and earthy spinach creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. So ditch the takeout menus and give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed.
