Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta because it’s the perfect balance between indulgent and nutritious. With its luscious creamy sauce and bursts of flavor from fresh tomatoes and spinach, this dish is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. I often whip this up on busy weeknights, knowing that it not only pleases the palate but also packs a punch with some healthy greens. It’s delightful how simply combining a few ingredients can create such a wonderfully comforting meal in just 30 minutes!
When I first tried to create this Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta, I wanted a dish that was not only indulgent but also accounted for my love of fresh ingredients. I found that adding cream cheese to the sauce made it incredibly smooth and flavorful. The acidity from the tomatoes balances perfectly with the creaminess, creating a delightful sauce that clings to the pasta.
One crucial tip I discovered is to add the spinach at the very end, allowing it to wilt slightly but still retain its vibrant color and nutrition. It’s such a simple dish that showcases how easy and rewarding cooking at home can be!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully
- Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition
- Quick preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners
Choosing the Right Pasta
The choice of pasta can significantly affect the overall texture and experience of your Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta. I recommend using shapes that can hold onto the sauce well, such as penne or fusilli. These shapes create pockets for the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is rich and flavorful. Aim for pasta made from semolina for optimal al dente texture; it should cook in about 8-10 minutes in boiling salted water.
Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can be a game-changer when mixing your pasta with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, just add a couple of tablespoons of pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess without sacrificing flavor.
The Role of Spinach and Tomatoes
Fresh spinach is not just for presentation; it adds a subtle earthy flavor and a vibrant hue to the dish. Look for bright green leaves and avoid any that are wilted. When cooking, sauté the spinach just until wilted, as this keeps its nutrients intact while enhancing its texture. If you're in a pinch, frozen spinach can be a great substitute; just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.
The tomatoes bring acidity and brightness, balancing out the creaminess of the cream cheese. When using canned diced tomatoes, look for those packed in juice rather than sauce, as this will contribute natural sweetness and prevent the sauce from becoming overly thick. You can also use fresh tomatoes during peak season for an even fresher taste; just dice and add them during the sautéing process.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta of your choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Make sure to use fresh spinach for the best flavor and nutritional benefits!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined with the tomatoes. Then, fold in the spinach until wilted.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if preferred.
Enjoy your delicious meal with a sprinkle of fresh basil!
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or substituting half of the cream cheese with ricotta.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend doing so in a skillet over medium heat. This method allows for even warming and helps prevent the pasta from turning mushy. Add a splash of milk or a bit of reserved pasta water to regain creaminess.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the creamy pasta. However, be aware that the cream cheese may change texture upon thawing. To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers without the Parmesan cheese, as it can clump. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above, adding cheese only just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Consider adding garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a fuller meal experience. For those who enjoy a kick, serve it with a side of spicy marinara sauce for dipping.
If you're looking to elevate it further, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for added color and flavor. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can add a delightful crunch. Plus, if desired, you can top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, making it adaptable for various dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well, but you can use any type you prefer.
→ Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese and the Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta
I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta because it’s the perfect balance between indulgent and nutritious. With its luscious creamy sauce and bursts of flavor from fresh tomatoes and spinach, this dish is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. I often whip this up on busy weeknights, knowing that it not only pleases the palate but also packs a punch with some healthy greens. It’s delightful how simply combining a few ingredients can create such a wonderfully comforting meal in just 30 minutes!
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta of your choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined with the tomatoes. Then, fold in the spinach until wilted.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if preferred.
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or substituting half of the cream cheese with ricotta.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g