Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts
Imagine twirling your fork through a vibrant bowl of Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta, where al dente pasta meets a luscious, sun-kissed tomato sauce enriched with creamy notes. Wilted spinach adds a touch of earthy freshness, while toasted pine nuts provide a delightful textural counterpoint. This comforting yet elegant dish, perfect for a satisfying Quick Weeknight Meal, offers a symphony of flavors in every bite. This Pasta Recipe is a FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com favorite, blending simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience.
A Weeknight Wonder: Creamy Tomato Pasta Perfection
This Creamy Tomato Pasta recipe is designed for those busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a testament to the fact that delicious doesn't have to be difficult. The Spinach Pasta element adds a nutritional boost and vibrant green color, making it a visually appealing dish as well. The addition of Toasted Pine Nuts elevates this classic pasta dish to new heights, providing a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. This recipe is firmly in the realm of Comfort Food, perfect for warming your soul after a long day.
Recipe Details: Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 350g pasta (penne, fusilli, or your preferred shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 400g crushed tomatoes
- 120ml heavy cream
- 100g baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 30g pine nuts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 120ml of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, toast the pine nuts. Place pine nuts in a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from pan and set aside. Watch carefully as they burn easily.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the drained pasta and chopped spinach to the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pine nuts and extra Parmesan cheese.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- For a vegetarian option, add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers along with the spinach.
- Substitute ricotta cheese for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 550-650 |
| Protein | 20-25g |
| Carbohydrates | 60-70g |
| Fat | 25-35g |
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a simple green salad and a glass of Pinot Grigio.
Keywords:
Creamy Tomato Pasta, Spinach Pasta, Toasted Pine Nuts, Quick Weeknight Meal, Pasta Recipe, Italian Cuisine, Comfort Food
Hashtags:
#pasta, #creamy, #tomato, #spinach, #pinenuts, #weeknightmeal, #italianfood
This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts recipe is a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire. It's a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don't forget to share your culinary creations on social media using the hashtags above! Head over to FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com for more delicious recipes!