Looking for a quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious pasta dish? This spinach tomato pasta recipe combines the earthy flavors of fresh spinach with the bright acidity of ripe tomatoes, creating a perfect harmony that will become your new weeknight favorite.
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious food lovers.
Recipe Information
Serves: 4 people
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cuisine: Italian/Mediterranean
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne or fusilli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 oz (150g) fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Pine nuts (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
- Serving bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Build the Tomato Base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Add the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until wilted. This should take about 2-3 minutes. If using heavy cream, add it now and stir to combine.
5. Combine and Finish
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
6. Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and pine nuts if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spinach Tomato Pasta
Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Add spinach at the end and just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value.
Save That Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and creates a silky texture.
Quality Matters: Use good-quality canned tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
Cheese Timing: Add Parmesan off the heat to prevent it from becoming stringy.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp for extra protein.
Vegan Version: Omit cream and Parmesan, use nutritional yeast instead.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or pasta sauce to prevent drying out. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be meal-prepped for busy weekdays.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 78g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Total Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Vitamin A | 85% DV |
| Vitamin C | 45% DV |
| Calcium | 25% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
| Folate | 30% DV |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Health Benefits
This spinach tomato pasta is a nutritional powerhouse. Spinach provides iron, folate, and vitamins A and K, while tomatoes offer lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The combination creates a meal that supports heart health, immune function, and provides sustained energy from complex carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute with 1 cup of frozen spinach, thawed and drained. Squeeze out excess water before adding to the pan.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, or include a diced jalapeño with the onions for extra heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat when ready to serve with freshly cooked pasta.
Final Words
This spinach tomato pasta recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With its perfect balance of vegetables, herbs, and satisfying pasta, it’s a dish that will please both adults and children alike. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.