Spinach Tomato Pasta
Try this Spinach Tomato Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Spinach Tomato Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 6 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can unsalted petite diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted chicken stock (such as swanson)
- 8 ounces whole-grain spaghetti or linguine (such as barilla
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 10 ounce fresh spinach
- 1 ounce parmesan cheese grated (about 1/4 cup)
- Carbohydrate 16.4171406499775 g
- Cholesterol 24.947580328 mg
- Fat 11.6970485604106 g
- Fiber 2.9340000744362 g
- Protein 12.7182265856598 g
- Saturated Fat 5.45127099176638 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (419g)
- Sodium 440.006708204319 mg
- Sugar 13.4831405755413 g
- Trans Fat 0.643880101854546 g
- Calories 218 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat a Dutch oven or large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add oil; swirl to coat.
- Add onion and garlic to pan; sauté 3 minutes or until onion starts to brown.
- Add tomatoes, stock, oregano, and pasta, in that order. Bring to a boil. Add noodles; stir to submerge in liquid.
- Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 7 minutes or until pasta is almost done.
- Uncover; stir in salt. Add spinach in batches, stirring until spinach wilts. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
My Simple, Satisfying Spinach Tomato Pasta
As a busy working mom, I need recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious. This Spinach Tomato Pasta recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's a weeknight staple in our house, and it's surprisingly versatile. I can easily adapt it based on what's in my fridge – sometimes I add a little extra protein with some cooked chicken or shrimp, other times I'll swap out the whole-grain pasta for something gluten-free. The key is fresh ingredients and simple preparation.
The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. There's no complicated chopping or lengthy cooking times involved. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, thanks to the combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and earthy spinach. It's a complete meal in itself, packed with protein and nutrients. My kids, even my picky eater, gobble it up. And honestly, the clean-up is minimal; one pot wonder meals are my absolute favorite!
I often find myself making double batches, especially on busy weeks. The leftovers are just as good, if not better, the next day. This pasta dish is ideal for meal prepping. I store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and it's a perfect lunch for work or a quick dinner option during a hectic week. It's the perfect balance of convenience and taste. The subtle sweetness from the tomatoes, the sharp tang of the garlic, and the delicate spinach flavor all combine to make a truly satisfying and flavorful pasta.
I love the way the spinach adds a healthy boost to this meal without overpowering the other flavors. The vibrant green color makes it visually appealing, too, which is always a plus when you're trying to encourage your kids (or even yourself!) to eat more vegetables. And the parmesan cheese at the end? Oh my goodness. It just brings the whole thing together. That salty, creamy note elevates the entire experience.
Honestly, there are days when I just don’t feel like cooking. But with this simple recipe, even on those days, I can whip up a delicious and healthy meal in less than 20 minutes. It’s a fantastic go-to when I'm tired, short on time, or just need a comforting, familiar meal. It’s surprisingly satisfying, and it’s something I can feel good about serving to my family. And let's be honest, the happy sighs around the dinner table when this pasta comes out are the best reward of all.
Ingredients I like to use:
I prefer using high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. A good quality olive oil makes a significant difference, and fresh garlic and spinach always taste better than their processed counterparts. While I have listed unsalted chicken stock and petite diced tomatoes, feel free to experiment. Vegetable stock is a suitable substitute if you prefer, and you could use different types of tomatoes depending on your preferences.
Tips for success:
Don't overcook the pasta! It's better to slightly undercook it, as it will continue to cook in the residual heat. The spinach wilts quickly, so add it only at the very end. If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese with the parmesan at the end. And lastly, always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to your liking. Salt and pepper are your friends here!
Beyond the basic recipe:
This recipe is just a starting point; feel free to get creative and add your own personal touch. You can add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. This versatile recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. I’ve even added pancetta or crispy bacon bits on occasion - the salty, savory elements create an incredibly rich and delicious flavor profile. It's a great way to add some extra excitement and texture to this already wonderful pasta dish.
Serving suggestions:
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this hearty pasta. Or you can add some crusty bread, perhaps dipped in a little olive oil and parmesan cheese. The possibilities are truly endless. No matter how you serve it, this Spinach Tomato Pasta is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
Ultimately, this is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. It's a dish that brings people together, sparks conversation, and leaves everyone feeling satisfied. So go ahead, give it a try. You might just find your new favorite weeknight meal.
