Tomato Spinach Pasta

If you're looking for a nutritious, satisfying, and quick meal that the whole family will love, Tomato Spinach Pasta is the answer! 

This easy-to-make recipe combines the bright, vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and spinach with the heartiness of pasta, creating a perfect harmony of taste and nutrition. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or a home cook looking to add something new to your recipe repertoire, this dish is a winner. It’s simple, flavorful, and can be made in under 30 minutes—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

Why You'll Love Tomato Spinach Pasta

This dish is a great option for anyone looking to balance flavor with health. Here's why:

1. Packed with Nutrients: The spinach adds a dose of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin K, while tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health.
2. Quick and Easy: You can prepare this meal in 20-30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy days when you want something nutritious but don't have much time to cook.
3. Customizable: You can modify this recipe based on what you have in your pantry. Add other vegetables, switch out the type of pasta, or even add protein (chicken, shrimp, or beans) to make it heartier.
4. Vegetarian-Friendly: This pasta dish is entirely vegetarian, making it a great choice for anyone following a plant-based diet.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 8 oz of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work great)
• Fresh Spinach: 4 cups (roughly 3 oz), washed and chopped
• Tomatoes: 2 large ripe tomatoes (or a 14 oz can of diced tomatoes for convenience)
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (extra virgin for more flavor)
• Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional for a little heat)
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves (about 1/4 cup, chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup grated (optional, for serving)
• Salt & Pepper: To taste
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (for brightness, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to add later for a creamier sauce (if desired).

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onion

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic. The garlic should release a fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes

If you're using fresh tomatoes, chop them into small chunks. If you're using canned tomatoes, simply add them (with their juices) directly to the pan. Stir to combine and let the tomatoes cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking them down with a spoon or spatula. If you'd like a smoother sauce, you can use a hand blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender for a quick puree. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Once the tomato mixture has cooked down, add the spinach. Stir it in until it wilts and cooks down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You can cover the pan with a lid to help it wilt faster. For extra flavor, you can also add fresh basil at this point, or dried basil if you’re using that.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato-spinach mixture. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce and create a silky, smooth texture. Taste the dish and adjust seasonings as necessary—add a pinch of salt or a dash of black pepper to perfect the flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, additional basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. The lemon adds a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the tomatoes and spinach.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Tomato Spinach Pasta

• Use Fresh Tomatoes: If possible, use ripe, fresh tomatoes for a more vibrant and flavorful sauce. If you're in a pinch, canned tomatoes (preferably whole or diced) can work as well.
• Add Protein: To make the dish more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or cannellini beans. This can help turn the pasta into a more balanced meal.
• Herb Options: If you don't have basil on hand, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley. Fresh thyme, in particular, pairs nicely with tomato-based dishes.
• Make It Spicy: For an extra kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils.

FAQ: Tomato Spinach Pasta

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish. Frozen spinach can release more water than fresh, so you may need to cook it for a little longer to remove any excess moisture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and tomato-spinach sauce separately, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the pasta and sauce together on the stovetop, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

3. How can I make this pasta vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute for Parmesan and adds a cheesy, umami flavor to the dish.

4. Can I use other vegetables in this pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the pasta. Mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes work especially well. You can sauté them along with the onions and garlic for added depth of flavor.

5. Is this dish low-carb?

This pasta dish is not particularly low-carb, but you can easily make it low-carb by substituting the pasta with a zucchini noodle (zoodle) or spaghetti squash. These alternatives provide a similar texture without the carbs.

6. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, if you like your pasta with a little heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a chopped fresh chili pepper to the sautéed garlic and onions.

7. How do I store leftover Tomato Spinach Pasta?

Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the pan and heat over low to medium heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

Tomato Spinach Pasta is the epitome of a simple, healthy, and delicious dish that anyone can enjoy. The fresh, savory tomato sauce combined with nutrient-rich spinach makes for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a group, this recipe is sure to please and can be adapted to your taste preferences. With minimal ingredients and a short cook time, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time. So why not try it tonight?