Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

This lovely Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a quick and easy dish that comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s a vibrant combination of juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The simple yet flavorful garlic-infused sauce elevates this pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with taste and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with cherry tomatoes and spinach, it adds a burst of color and nutrients to your meal.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main dish or a side, it pairs well with various proteins or can be enjoyed on its own.
• Flavorful Sauce: The garlic and basil create a delicious sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
• Meatless Option: An excellent choice for those looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Preparation is straightforward with the right tools. Gather your essentials before diving into this quick recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently, allowing enough space to prevent sticking.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables while providing even heat distribution for better flavor development.
• Knife: A good-quality knife ensures clean cuts of vegetables, enhancing presentation and cooking time.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, you’ll need the following 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 Vegetables

• 5oz (150 grams) baby spinach

For Serving

• ¼ heaped cup (30 grams) grated parmesan cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese (to taste)
• Freshly cracked pepper (to taste)
• 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 the Tomatoes

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the tomato skins burst and they begin releasing their juices. Keep stirring gently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Once the tomatoes start breaking down, add the spinach by large handfuls. Stir it into the tomatoes until wilted but still bright green—this should take only a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

At this point, you should have a nice sauce-like mixture in your pan. Taste it and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Mix Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with grated parmesan cheese and a touch of reserved cooking water. Toss everything together until well combined; use just enough water to keep it moist without being too watery.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your pasta hot with extra grated parmesan cheese on top, some freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach!

How to Serve Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Serving Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to make the most of this delightful dish.

Pairing with Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that complements the pasta.
• Crusty Baguette – A sliced baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Adding Protein

• Grilled Chicken – Add slices of grilled chicken for a heartier meal that pairs well with the flavors of the pasta.
• Turkey Meatballs – Serve turkey meatballs alongside or on top of the pasta for extra flavor and protein.

Enhancing with Salads

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm pasta.
• Caprese Salad – Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a vibrant side that echoes the pasta’s ingredients.

How to Perfect Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

To ensure your Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach turns out beautifully every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes enhance flavor significantly compared to their canned or frozen counterparts.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Cooking pasta al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture when mixed with sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water – Keep some cooking water on hand; it helps adjust the sauce consistency without losing flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Garlic – Sauté garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness in your dish.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually allows you to achieve the desired flavor without overdoing it.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Complementing your Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes worth trying.

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrients while balancing flavors.
2. Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta offers a crunchy bite that pairs well with pasta.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with rice or quinoa, these colorful peppers add a fun twist to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, parsley, and lemon offers a refreshing contrast.
5. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings a smoky taste that complements the dish’s freshness.
6. Simple Green Salad – A mix of greens dressed lightly can cleanse the palate between bites of rich pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving some pasta cooking water can lead to a dry dish. This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
• Overcooking the garlic: If you cook garlic too long, it can become bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant, about 45-60 seconds.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland pasta. Always season the dish towards the end for optimal flavor.
• Adding spinach all at once: Adding too much spinach at once makes it hard to wilt evenly. Add it a handful at a time for better integration into the dish.
• Forgetting to toss thoroughly: Not mixing enough can leave some pasta uncoated with sauce. Toss well to ensure every piece is deliciously coated.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach:

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any shape of pasta you prefer. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach stores well and can be made ahead for quick lunches or dinners.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes work great! Just chop them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.

Final Thoughts

Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a delightful meal that’s not only quick but also customizable. You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein options. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fresh spinach creates a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!