Name: Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: ½ lb penne pasta; 1 each yellow onion (small dice, 340g, 1.5 cups); 2 cloves garlic (minced, 1 Tbsp); 1 Tbsp olive oil; 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (1 can); ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried basil; ⅛ tsp crushed red pepper; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; ½ cup water; 2 oz cream cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan (30g); 4 oz fresh spinach

Introduction to Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Are you looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner? Creamy tomato and spinach pasta might just be your new go-to recipe! Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it's also a fantastic way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing taste. Picture this: a luscious, creamy sauce made with fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes clinging to perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a hug on a plate!

Why Choose Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta?

Choosing creamy tomato and spinach pasta means opting for both comfort and nutrition. Spinach is a superfood rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while tomatoes provide a hearty dose of antioxidants like lycopene. According to the USDA, a one-cup serving of cooked spinach offers ample daily intakes of essential nutrients. Plus, whipping up this dish takes less than 30 minutes! That makes it perfect for busy young professionals who appreciate delicious meals without long prep times.

This pasta can easily be customized. Want to spice things up? A dash of crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick. Alternatively, you can add protein with grilled chicken or turkey bacon if you’re looking to make it heartier. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that marries flavor, health, and convenience!

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

List of Essential Ingredients

To whip up your delightful Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta, you’ll need the following essential ingredients:

½ lb penne pasta
1 yellow onion (small diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (1 can)
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoon tomato paste
½ cup water
2 oz cream cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan
4 oz fresh spinach

These ingredients come together to create a rich, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta, so let’s get cooking!

Budget-Friendly Cost Breakdown

Great news! This recipe is also easy on your wallet. Here’s the cost breakdown:

Pasta: $0.49
Onion: $0.78
Garlic: $0.12
Olive oil: $0.18
Diced tomatoes: $0.96
Dried herbs: $0.27 (combined for oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper)
Salt & pepper: $0.10 (combined)
Tomato paste: $0.14
Cream cheese: $0.46
Parmesan: $0.51
Spinach: $0.79

In total, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta for just around $4.10! Find more budget-friendly tips on meal prepping here.

Preparing Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Creating a delicious Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is not only satisfying but also surprisingly easy. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!

Gather and Prepare All Ingredients

To kick off, you’ll want to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you need:

½ lb penne pasta
1 yellow onion, small diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
14.5 oz. canned diced tomatoes
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoon tomato paste
½ cup water
2 oz cream cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan
4 oz fresh spinach

Prepping your ingredients, such as dicing the onion and mincing the garlic, will streamline your cooking process.

Boil the Pasta to Perfection

Next, bring a sizable pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. A good tip is to salt the water—this will boost your pasta’s flavor. Add the penne pasta and boil until it’s tender, usually about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Make sure to reserve a little pasta water just in case your sauce needs loosening later.

Sauté Aromatics for Flavor

While your pasta cooks, let’s infuse the dish with rich flavors. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This step is key for building a hearty flavor base for your creamy tomato and spinach pasta.

Create the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Now comes the star of the show—your creamy tomato sauce! Add the canned diced tomatoes (along with their juices), oregano, basil, crushed red pepper, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Next, scoop in the tomato paste, followed by the ½ cup of water, mixing until everything is well blended.

Combine Pasta and Sauce for a Perfect Finish

Reduce the heat to low and cut the cream cheese into small chunks, adding it to your skillet. Use a whisk to gently stir it until fully melted, creating a creamy texture. Once it’s nice and smooth, add in the grated Parmesan. Stir until it’s melted and well incorporated.

Time to bring it all together! Fold in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the drained pasta, tossing it until every piece is coated in that luscious sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serve warm, and prepare to impress yourself and others with your Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta! For more tips and variations, check out this resource on pasta dishes. Cooking should be fun, so enjoy the process!

Variations on Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Add Protein Options: Chicken or Turkey Bacon

Looking to amp up the protein in your creamy tomato and spinach pasta? Consider adding sautéed chicken or crispy turkey bacon. Chicken breast, cooked to perfection and sliced, complements the creamy sauce beautifully, while turkey bacon provides a smoky contrast. Simply cook your protein of choice alongside the onions and garlic for an all-in-one flavor adjustment.

Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables

Why not make your creamy tomato and spinach pasta even more vibrant? Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrients. Sauté them along with your onions for an added layer of flavor that enhances the dish and satisfies your daily veggie intake. Fresh ingredients not only elevate the taste but can also highlight the beauty of your dish!

With these variations, you can make this creamy tomato and spinach pasta uniquely yours!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Ensuring a Smooth and Creamy Sauce

To achieve that irresistibly smooth and creamy texture in your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, incorporate the cream cheese gradually. Cut it into smaller pieces and whisk it into the sauce over low heat for the best results. This method helps it blend seamlessly without clumping. For an extra creamy sauce, consider using half-and-half or heavy cream as a substitute for some water.

Tips for Fresh vs. Dried Herbs

When adding flavor to your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, the choice of herbs matters! Fresh herbs like basil and oregano are more potent and aromatic, while dried herbs should be added earlier in the cooking process to release their flavors. If you're using dried herbs, remember that you’ll need less—typically about one-third of the amount. Interested in herb preservation techniques? Check out this informative article on The Spruce Eats. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Garnishing for Presentation

Elevate your creamy tomato and spinach pasta with some simple yet effective garnishing. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish's visual appeal. You might also consider adding a few fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving. For a bit of warmth, a dash of crushed red pepper can provide a pop of color and flavor.

Suggested Side Dishes

Pair your pasta with light and refreshing side dishes for a balanced meal. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette makes a delightful accompaniment, and garlic bread is always a hit, perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce. Want a heartier option? Grilled chicken or turkey bacon can offer an extra protein boost while complementing the flavors of your creamy tomato and spinach pasta.

For more serving ideas and tips, check out this resource on pasta pairings.

Time Breakdown for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Preparation Time

Getting started on your creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a breeze! You'll need about 10 minutes to gather and prep all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out your tomato products and spices.

Cooking Time

Cooking this delightful dish will take approximately 20 minutes. This includes boiling the pasta and whipping up your creamy sauce in a single skillet, ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully.

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal on the table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends! For tips on making your cooking process even quicker, check out this time-saving cooking guide.

Remember, cooking should be enjoyable! So take your time, and savor the process of creating this creamy indulgence.

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

When you indulge in this creamy tomato and spinach pasta, you're making a flavorful choice that's also satisfying. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional benefits:

Calories

One serving packs approximately 350 calories, making it a balanced meal option that won't weigh you down.

Protein Content

With about 12 grams of protein per serving, this pasta dish provides a solid protein boost, thanks to the cream cheese and Parmesan.

Sodium Levels

Keep an eye on your sodium intake, as this dish contains around 600 mg of sodium. Adjust the salt to suit your taste while maintaining that delicious flavor!

If you're curious about more nutritional insights, the USDA's FoodData Central is a great resource to explore. And remember, healthy eating is all about balance!

FAQs about Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! To enjoy this creamy tomato and spinach pasta gluten-free, simply replace the penne pasta with a gluten-free alternative. There are plenty of excellent options available, such as chickpea, brown rice, or even vegetable-based pasta. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed, as gluten-free pasta can vary in texture!

What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to cream cheese, consider using Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a vegan cream cheese made from cashews or tofu. These substitutes will still give you that creamy texture and delightful flavor without compromising your dish.

How to store leftovers properly?
To store your creamy tomato and spinach pasta leftovers, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat gently, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it thickens during storage!

Enjoy your cooking journey, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!

Conclusion on Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is not just a dish, but a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures perfectly. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or showcasing your cooking skills to friends, this recipe promises satisfaction for everyone at the table. Enjoy!

For more tips on pasta recipes, check out Bon Appétit's pasta guide. Don't miss out on other delicious vegetarian options, either—visit Minimalist Baker for inspiration!