Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta: A Burst of Italian Goodness
Sometimes, the simplest dishes offer the most profound satisfaction. This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is a testament to that truth. Imagine perfectly cooked, al dente noodles embracing a luscious, vibrant tomato sauce, enriched with the earthy goodness of fresh spinach. Then, picture dollops of creamy ricotta cheese adding a delightful tang and a beautiful textural contrast to this already satisfying dish. This isn't just pasta; it's a taste of Italy, a comforting hug in a bowl, and a surprisingly quick and easy weeknight meal that will become a family favorite.
This recipe is all about balance. The sweetness of the tomato sauce is perfectly complemented by the subtle earthiness of the spinach and the creamy tang of the ricotta. The vibrant colors alone are enough to make your mouth water! It's the kind of dish that's both elegant enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a weeknight family meal. The best part? It comes together in minutes, leaving you with more time to enjoy the delicious results.
A Weeknight Meal That Tastes Like a Restaurant Dish
Busy weeknights often call for quick and easy meals, but that doesn't mean you have to compromise on flavor. This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is a perfect example of a recipe that's both simple and satisfying. The combination of fresh ingredients and a simple yet flavorful sauce makes it a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily whip up at home. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma alone will have your family eager to dig in. This is a recipe that's certain to become a regular part of your weeknight rotation, a comforting and delicious meal that's sure to please everyone.
Recipe: Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) pasta of your choice (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 ounces (140g) fresh spinach
- 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté Garlic: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream (or half-and-half), oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Wilt Spinach: Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly. Add a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Prepare Ricotta Topping: In a small bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan cheese, and parsley (if using).
- Serve: Serve pasta hot, topped with dollops of ricotta mixture.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use a different cheese for the topping, such as mozzarella or goat cheese.
- Add some cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Approximately 600 calories, 25g protein, 70g carbohydrates, 25g fat. (This is an estimate.)
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
#pasta #tomato #spinach #ricotta #Italianfood #easyrecipe #weeknightdinner
This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal. We encourage you to give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments below! Share your photos on social media using #CreamyTomatoPasta. For more delicious and easy pasta recipes, visit our website: https://flavortrailrecipes.blogspot.com/