Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta: A Taste of Italy on a Weeknight
Indulge in the comforting simplicity of Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta, where vibrant flavors meld in perfect harmony. Imagine tender pasta coated in a luscious tomato sauce, enriched with fresh spinach and dolloped with creamy ricotta cheese. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, offering a delightful taste of Italy in every bite. This #pasta recipe from FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com is a simple yet elegant meal for any night of the week.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Comforting & Satisfying: Creamy sauce and tender pasta create a heartwarming meal.
- Vibrant Flavors: Fresh tomato, spinach, and ricotta create a delicious combination.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A perfect meatless meal option.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferred pasta shape and additions.
Ingredients
- 250g (9 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 700g (24 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 100ml (1/2 cup) vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 150g (5 oz) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 200g (7 oz) ricotta cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Spinach: Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add a little pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately, topped with dollops of ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Creaminess Boost: Add a splash of heavy cream for extra creaminess.
- Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cheese Variations: Try goat cheese or mascarpone cheese instead of ricotta.
- Protein Addition: Add cooked sausage or chicken for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this #tomatosauce pasta as a main course. A simple side salad or crusty bread would complement the dish perfectly. A glass of light-bodied red wine would also pair well.
More Comfort Food Recipes
For more comforting and satisfying recipes perfect for a cozy weeknight, visit FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com. We have a wide variety of delicious and easy meals to warm your heart and soul!