Looking for a dinner that’s both comforting and quick to make? This creamy tomato pasta with spinach is a winner. It’s packed with flavor, comes together in no time, and is a fantastic way to get some greens into your meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Step By Step Making
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Add the fresh spinach to the sauce. Stir until the spinach wilts, which should only take a couple of minutes.
7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutritional Value (Approximate per serving)
- Protein: 15g
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbs: 60g
Health Benefits
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is good for heart health. Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, including iron, vitamin K, and vitamin A, which support bone health and vision. This meal offers a good balance of carbohydrates for energy and can be a wholesome option for a satisfying dinner. For other hearty and healthy meal ideas, you might find our Quick Lentil Shepherd’s Pie article interesting.
Disclaimer: This recipe information is provided by azeely.com for general informational purposes only.
