Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

This lovely Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a quick and easy dish that bursts with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch, this recipe showcases the vibrant colors and fresh tastes of cherry tomatoes and spinach. In just under 20 minutes, you can enjoy a delightful meatless meal that’s not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in less than 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with nutritious spinach and sweet cherry tomatoes for vibrant flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy Cleanup: One pan cooking means less mess to clean up afterward.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and parmesan creates a rich taste you’ll love.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly without crowding.
• Skillet: Used to sauté the garlic and tomatoes, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For this delicious Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, you’ll need the following:

• 8oz (220 grams) pasta
• 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
• 5oz (150 grams) baby spinach
• ¼ heaped cup (30 grams) grated parmesan cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Freshly cracked pepper (for serving)
• 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 it over high heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling:
1. Add the pasta.
2. Cook until al dente according to package directions.
3. Reserve about ½ cup of cooking water before draining the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

While waiting for the water to boil:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 45–60 seconds).

Step 3: Cook Tomatoes

Add tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked pepper to the skillet:
1. Sauté until tomato skins burst and they release their juices.
2. Keep heat at medium-low to prevent burning the garlic.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Once tomatoes begin breaking down:
1. Add spinach in large handfuls.
2. Stir into tomatoes until wilted but still bright green (about 2 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Flavors

With tomatoes creating a sauce-like mixture:
1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Toss Pasta

Add drained pasta to the skillet along with parmesan cheese:
1. Add a touch of reserved pasta cooking water.
2. Toss everything together until coated in sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot:
1. Sprinkle with extra grated parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and drizzle with 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 is a delightful experience that can be elevated with a few simple touches. Here are some creative ways to plate and enjoy this dish.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for an aromatic finish.
• Parsley – Chopped parsley adds color and a fresh taste.

Cheese Options

• Feta Cheese – Crumbled feta provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of tomatoes.
• Mozzarella Balls – Add halved mozzarella balls for extra creaminess.

Additional Protein

• Grilled Chicken – Slice grilled chicken breast on top for added protein.
• Chickpeas – Toss in some chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

Drizzles and Finishes

• Balsamic Reduction – A drizzle of balsamic reduction enhances the flavor profile.
• Lemon Zest – Grate fresh lemon zest over the top for a citrusy kick.

How to Perfect Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

To make your pasta with tomatoes and spinach truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Using fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes will enhance flavor significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture; it should have a slight bite.
• Reserve Pasta Water – Keep some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency, ensuring it clings well to the pasta.
• Adjust Seasoning – Always taste before serving; add more salt or pepper as needed to balance flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Pairing side dishes with your pasta can round out the meal perfectly. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy element.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the meal’s flavors beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy, colorful addition to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that echoes the main dish.
5. Antipasto Platter – A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses can bring variety to your table.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
7. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad can be nutritious while balancing the richness of the pasta dish.
8. Minestrone Soup – A warm bowl of minestrone soup is perfect as an appetizer before diving into the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pasta with tomatoes and spinach can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving pasta cooking water means missing out on a great way to enhance your sauce’s texture. Always save some before draining.
• Overcooking the garlic: Cooking garlic too long can make it bitter. Sauté just until fragrant, about 45-60 seconds.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland pasta. Always taste before serving and add salt or pepper as needed.
• Adding spinach all at once: Dumping all the spinach in at once may prevent it from wilting properly. Add it in batches for even cooking.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold tomatoes or spinach can cool the dish down. Let them come to room temperature before using.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover pasta in an airtight container.
• item It can last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• item Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• item This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• item Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• item Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I add to Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach?

Feel free to customize by adding protein like grilled chicken or beans. You could also add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes work well if fresh ones aren’t available. Drain excess liquid before adding them to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. It’s perfect for busy weeknights while being versatile enough for various customization options. Try adding your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!