Fresh Spinach and Tomato Pasta Recipe

Fresh Spinach and Tomato Pasta is a quick and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring tender pasta tossed with garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and wilted spinach in a buttery Parmesan sauce, this recipe combines fresh flavors with simple ingredients. Ideal as a light main course or a versatile side dish, it’s ready in just 20 minutes and can be customized with your favorite additions like chicken or shrimp.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (e.g., linguine, spaghetti)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • When the pasta is about 10 minutes from being done, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the minced garlic, halved tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. Reduce the heat slightly if needed to prevent the liquid from evaporating completely.
3. Add Spinach:
   • Stir in the spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
   • Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
   • Add the pasta and reserved water to the skillet, along with the grated Parmesan. Toss everything together until the sauce evenly coats the pasta and the Parmesan is melted.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve the pasta immediately for the best flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: A 20-minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Simple ingredients like garlic, spinach, and tomatoes create a vibrant and satisfying dish.
• Versatile: Works as a light main course or a flavorful side dish for proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.

Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
• Reserve a little extra pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce further.
• Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be fragrant but not browned.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for a heartier meal.
• Vegetables: Toss in extras like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly alternative.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

What other pasta shapes work well?
Short pastas like penne or fusilli hold the sauce beautifully, but any shape can be used.

Can I prepare this in advance?
The pasta tastes best fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve as a side dish alongside roasted chicken or baked salmon.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and spice.