Ingredients
Before we get into the step-by-step process, let’s gather all the ingredients. The key to a smooth cooking experience is having everything ready to go!
Pantry Essentials
- Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice works beautifully.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted if you want an extra depth of flavor.
- Tomato paste: For a concentrated tomato punch.
- Heavy cream: Adds the signature creaminess to the sauce.
Fresh Ingredients
- Spinach: Baby spinach is perfect for its tenderness and mild flavor.
- Garlic: Because what’s a pasta dish without it?
- Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this elevates the entire dish.
Seasonings and Add-ins
- Olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and onions.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Now that your ingredients are all set, let’s move on to the fun part—making the dish!
How to Make Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Preparing the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water. Wondering why the salt is so important? It’s not just for flavor; it actually helps the pasta absorb seasoning as it cooks. Cook the pasta until al dente (firm to the bite), then drain and set aside. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water—this will be your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
Making the Creamy Tomato Sauce
Here’s where the magic happens:
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and onion, letting them sizzle until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the tomatoes: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cream it up: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently as the sauce transforms into a velvety texture.
- Season to perfection: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If you like a hint of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Incorporating Spinach
Why add spinach to this dish? Apart from its nutritional benefits, spinach adds a lovely earthy note that balances the richness of the sauce.
- Toss the spinach into the skillet.
- Gently fold it into the sauce until it wilts completely. This step only takes a couple of minutes, and the vibrant green spinach adds a pop of color to your dish.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Here’s the grand finale:
- Add your cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated with the creamy tomato goodness.
- If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
There you have it—a creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With its rich sauce, vibrant flavors, and customizable options, this dish is destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
The best part? It’s simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining. So go ahead, give it a try, and let your taste buds revel in the creamy, tangy, and utterly satisfying experience.
What’s stopping you from making this dish tonight? You’ve got the recipe, the tips, and all the inspiration you need. Dive in, and don’t forget to share your creation with family and friends—it’s too good to keep to yourself!
