Indulge in a Bowl of Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is more than just a weeknight meal; it's a culinary hug in a bowl. The vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes dance with the earthy spinach, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. Toasted pine nuts provide a delightful textural contrast, making this #pasta recipe a true delight. Whether you're looking for a quick #weeknightmeal or a cozy weekend lunch, this dish is sure to satisfy. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an incredibly flavorful and satisfying #vegetarian meal.
Imagine this: a swirl of creamy tomato sauce, flecks of bright green spinach, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pine nuts. This isn't just pasta; it's a symphony of textures and tastes, a culinary experience that's as comforting as it is delicious. The recipe is designed for those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without the hours of prep. This #easyrecipe is quick to assemble, making it a true weeknight wonder.
Recipe: Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts
Yields:
4 servings
Prep time:
10 minutes
Cook time:
20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 340g (12 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 794g (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 113g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 142g (5 oz) fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. This creates the luscious #creamcheese base for our creamy tomato sauce.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. The spinach adds a burst of freshness and nutrients to this #spinachpasta.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Add some of the reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. A little freshly ground black pepper enhances the depth of flavor in this #tomatosauce.
- While the sauce simmers, toast the pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium heat, shaking frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully as they burn easily. The toasted #pinenuts add a lovely crunch.
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with toasted pine nuts and additional Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of extra #parmesancheese adds a touch of salty richness.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes. Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain and chop before adding to the sauce.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal. This easily adapts to suit various dietary needs and preferences.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Calories | Approximately 550 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 70g |
| Fat | 25g |
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs well with this dish. This #quickdinner is perfect for a weeknight treat, and it's a guaranteed #comfortfood.
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple cooking. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. It's a perfect example of a #easypasta recipe that delivers maximum flavor. So why not give it a try? Let us know in the comments how it turned out!
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