Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts: A Quick Weeknight Meal
Imagine twirling your fork through a vibrant Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta, where the rich, subtly sweet tomato sauce embraces tender pasta and wilted spinach. Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty depth, elevating this comforting dish to something truly special. It's an effortlessly elegant meal, perfect for a weeknight indulgence or a simple yet satisfying weekend treat. This creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients, expertly combined. Find the full recipe and more delicious inspiration on FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com.
Why This Recipe Works
This easy dinner recipe fits perfectly into the busy schedules of modern life. It's a quick weeknight meal that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition. The combination of creamy tomato sauce, earthy spinach, and crunchy pine nuts creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will delight your palate. This pasta recipe is also incredibly versatile; feel free to adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients: Your Culinary Canvas
This vegetarian pasta dish requires readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight dinner. Gather these essentials:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape) | 340g (12 oz) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 tsp |
| Crushed tomatoes | 700g (24 oz) |
| Heavy cream | 120ml (1/2 cup) |
| Fresh spinach, roughly chopped | 150g (5 oz) |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 50g (1/4 cup), plus more for serving |
| Pine nuts | 30g (1/4 cup) |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Instructions: A Culinary Journey
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, 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.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Toast the pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat until golden brown and fragrant. Watch carefully, as they burn easily.
- Add the spinach to the tomato sauce and stir until wilted.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Serve immediately, topped with toasted pine nuts and extra Parmesan cheese.
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Expert Tips and Variations
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitute ricotta cheese for heavy cream for a lighter option.
- Add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers add an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamy tomato pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish. This comfort food is sure to become a family favorite!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Estimate)
Calories: 550, Protein: 20g, Carbohydrates: 70g, Fat: 25g
Ready to Indulge?
This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts is more than just a recipe; it's an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of delicious, homemade food. Visit FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com for more quick and easy weeknight meal ideas. Enjoy!