![To make creamy tomato and spinach pasta, gather these key ingredients: - 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine recommended) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish These ingredients blend to create a rich, comforting dish. The crushed tomatoes bring a vibrant flavor. The heavy cream adds a luxurious touch, making the sauce creamy and smooth. Fresh spinach not only brightens the dish but also packs a nutrient punch. You can choose different types of pasta for this recipe. Here are some options: - Penne - Fettuccine - Fusilli - Farfalle Penne and fettuccine are my favorites. They hold the sauce well and provide a great bite. Fusilli and farfalle can also work, adding fun shapes to your plate. Garnishes take your dish to the next level. Here are a few ideas: - Extra grated Parmesan cheese - Chopped fresh basil - Crushed red pepper flakes - A drizzle of olive oil These toppings can add more flavor and visual appeal. They make your creamy tomato and spinach pasta look and taste even better. For the full recipe, check the complete cooking instructions. Start by boiling water in a big pot. Make sure to add salt to the water. When the water is at a rolling boil, add your pasta. I like penne or fettuccine for this dish. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Before you drain the pasta, save 1 cup of the water. Drain the pasta and keep it warm. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. Keep stirring to prevent burning. You want the garlic to smell good but not turn brown. Next, pour in a 15 oz can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Stir it well to mix with the garlic. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Add 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together nicely. Now, it’s time to add 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Stir the mixture well. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and mix well with the sauce. This adds color and nutrients to your dish. Finally, add your cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually. Mix until you achieve your desired creaminess. This method ensures every bite is packed with flavor. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. Enjoy your meal! To change the creaminess, you can use less cream. Start with half a cup. If you want it richer, add more cream. You can also use whole milk for a lighter sauce. Another fun tip is to add some of the pasta water. This water helps to make the sauce smoother. Just add a little at a time until it feels right. The right spices can make your dish pop! I love using dried basil and oregano. They bring depth to the sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Try adding garlic powder for extra flavor. Taste as you go to find the right balance. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper. This step is key for a well-seasoned dish. Fresh ingredients shine in this dish. Add spinach near the end of cooking. This keeps it bright and tender. If you use fresh herbs, add them just before serving. They bring vibrant flavor and color. For tomatoes, canned is great, but fresh ones add a nice touch. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best taste. Follow these tips for a fantastic flavor experience. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} You can add protein to your creamy tomato and spinach pasta for a heartier meal. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sausage all work well. Just sauté the protein in the skillet before adding the tomatoes. This way, the flavors blend nicely. If you want a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or lentils. They add protein and fiber while keeping the dish filling. If you need a dairy-free version, switch the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream. These alternatives keep the pasta creamy and delicious. For cheese, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan. They provide that cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just remember to adjust the seasoning, as these substitutes can change the taste a bit. Using seasonal veggies can uplift your pasta dish. In spring, try adding asparagus or peas. In summer, add zucchini or bell peppers for freshness. Fall brings great options like butternut squash or mushrooms, which add depth. You can sauté these vegetables before mixing them into the creamy sauce. This way, you create a vibrant and colorful dish that celebrates the season. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. After you enjoy your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, save any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the pasta to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, you can enjoy it again. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. Allow the pasta to cool completely. Then, pack it in a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This way, it stays fresh. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, you have a few options. The best way is on the stove. Add a bit of water or cream to the skillet. Heat it over low heat, stirring gently. This keeps the pasta creamy. If you use a microwave, place it in a bowl. Add a splash of water, cover it, and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst until warm. For a tasty touch, top with more Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your meal! You can use any pasta you like. I recommend penne or fettuccine. They hold the sauce well and create a great bite. Other shapes like rigatoni or spaghetti also work. Choose what you enjoy most! Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy. Store the sauce in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove before adding pasta. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For lactose-free, swap heavy cream with a plant-based cream. You can also skip the cheese or use vegan cheese. These swaps help you enjoy the meal without worry. A fresh salad is a great choice. You might try a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread also pairs well, adding a nice crunch. Roasted vegetables can round out this meal beautifully too. To make this creamy tomato and spinach pasta vegan, use plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavors without any dairy. Check the [Full Recipe] for more details. This blog post detailed how to make creamy tomato and spinach pasta. We covered essential ingredients, pasta types, and garnishes. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions tailored for perfect results. I also included helpful tips, variations, and storage advice for leftovers. With this recipe, you can create a tasty meal at home. Explore different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey!](https://spoonfulsavory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/750c95c5-8912-45b5-be7e-e5a0728abfde-768x768.webp)
Are you ready to enjoy a creamy, flavorful pasta dish? My Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is a tasty delight you’ll want to make again and again. This easy recipe packs a punch with fresh ingredients, and it only takes a short time to prepare. Whether you’re a busy parent or a pasta lover, this dish will please your palate. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal together!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
To make creamy tomato and spinach pasta, gather these key ingredients:
– 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine recommended)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
These ingredients blend to create a rich, comforting dish. The crushed tomatoes bring a vibrant flavor. The heavy cream adds a luxurious touch, making the sauce creamy and smooth. Fresh spinach not only brightens the dish but also packs a nutrient punch.
Suggested Pasta Types
You can choose different types of pasta for this recipe. Here are some options:
– Penne
– Fettuccine
– Fusilli
– Farfalle
Penne and fettuccine are my favorites. They hold the sauce well and provide a great bite. Fusilli and farfalle can also work, adding fun shapes to your plate.
Optional Garnishes
Garnishes take your dish to the next level. Here are a few ideas:
– Extra grated Parmesan cheese
– Chopped fresh basil
– Crushed red pepper flakes
– A drizzle of olive oil
These toppings can add more flavor and visual appeal. They make your creamy tomato and spinach pasta look and taste even better. For the full recipe, check the complete cooking instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling water in a big pot. Make sure to add salt to the water. When the water is at a rolling boil, add your pasta. I like penne or fettuccine for this dish. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Before you drain the pasta, save 1 cup of the water. Drain the pasta and keep it warm.
Sautéing the Garlic for Flavor
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. Keep stirring to prevent burning. You want the garlic to smell good but not turn brown.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Next, pour in a 15 oz can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Stir it well to mix with the garlic. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Add 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together nicely.
Incorporating Fresh Spinach
Now, it’s time to add 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Stir the mixture well. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and mix well with the sauce. This adds color and nutrients to your dish.
Mixing Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add your cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually. Mix until you achieve your desired creaminess.
This method ensures every bite is packed with flavor. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Adjusting the Creaminess
To change the creaminess, you can use less cream. Start with half a cup. If you want it richer, add more cream. You can also use whole milk for a lighter sauce. Another fun tip is to add some of the pasta water. This water helps to make the sauce smoother. Just add a little at a time until it feels right.
Enhancing Flavors with Seasoning
The right spices can make your dish pop! I love using dried basil and oregano. They bring depth to the sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Try adding garlic powder for extra flavor. Taste as you go to find the right balance. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper. This step is key for a well-seasoned dish.
Timing for Freshness
Fresh ingredients shine in this dish. Add spinach near the end of cooking. This keeps it bright and tender. If you use fresh herbs, add them just before serving. They bring vibrant flavor and color. For tomatoes, canned is great, but fresh ones add a nice touch. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best taste. Follow these tips for a fantastic flavor experience. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Adding Protein Options
You can add protein to your creamy tomato and spinach pasta for a heartier meal. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sausage all work well. Just sauté the protein in the skillet before adding the tomatoes. This way, the flavors blend nicely. If you want a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or lentils. They add protein and fiber while keeping the dish filling.
Substituting for Dairy-Free Ingredients
If you need a dairy-free version, switch the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream. These alternatives keep the pasta creamy and delicious. For cheese, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan. They provide that cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just remember to adjust the seasoning, as these substitutes can change the taste a bit.
Seasonal Vegetable Additions
Using seasonal veggies can uplift your pasta dish. In spring, try adding asparagus or peas. In summer, add zucchini or bell peppers for freshness. Fall brings great options like butternut squash or mushrooms, which add depth. You can sauté these vegetables before mixing them into the creamy sauce. This way, you create a vibrant and colorful dish that celebrates the season.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Storage Info
How to Refrigerate Leftovers
After you enjoy your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, save any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the pasta to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, you can enjoy it again.
Freezing Tips for Future Meals
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. Allow the pasta to cool completely. Then, pack it in a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This way, it stays fresh. It can last in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, you have a few options. The best way is on the stove. Add a bit of water or cream to the skillet. Heat it over low heat, stirring gently. This keeps the pasta creamy. If you use a microwave, place it in a bowl. Add a splash of water, cover it, and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst until warm. For a tasty touch, top with more Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
What is the best type of pasta to use?
You can use any pasta you like. I recommend penne or fettuccine. They hold the sauce well and create a great bite. Other shapes like rigatoni or spaghetti also work. Choose what you enjoy most!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy. Store the sauce in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove before adding pasta.
How to adjust for dietary restrictions?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For lactose-free, swap heavy cream with a plant-based cream. You can also skip the cheese or use vegan cheese. These swaps help you enjoy the meal without worry.
What sides pair well with this dish?
A fresh salad is a great choice. You might try a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread also pairs well, adding a nice crunch. Roasted vegetables can round out this meal beautifully too.
How to make this dish vegan-friendly?
To make this creamy tomato and spinach pasta vegan, use plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavors without any dairy. Check the [Full Recipe] for more details.
This blog post detailed how to make creamy tomato and spinach pasta. We covered essential ingredients, pasta types, and garnishes. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions tailored for perfect results. I also included helpful tips, variations, and storage advice for leftovers.
With this recipe, you can create a tasty meal at home. Explore different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey!
![To make creamy tomato and spinach pasta, gather these key ingredients: - 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine recommended) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish These ingredients blend to create a rich, comforting dish. The crushed tomatoes bring a vibrant flavor. The heavy cream adds a luxurious touch, making the sauce creamy and smooth. Fresh spinach not only brightens the dish but also packs a nutrient punch. You can choose different types of pasta for this recipe. Here are some options: - Penne - Fettuccine - Fusilli - Farfalle Penne and fettuccine are my favorites. They hold the sauce well and provide a great bite. Fusilli and farfalle can also work, adding fun shapes to your plate. Garnishes take your dish to the next level. Here are a few ideas: - Extra grated Parmesan cheese - Chopped fresh basil - Crushed red pepper flakes - A drizzle of olive oil These toppings can add more flavor and visual appeal. They make your creamy tomato and spinach pasta look and taste even better. For the full recipe, check the complete cooking instructions. Start by boiling water in a big pot. Make sure to add salt to the water. When the water is at a rolling boil, add your pasta. I like penne or fettuccine for this dish. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Before you drain the pasta, save 1 cup of the water. Drain the pasta and keep it warm. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. Keep stirring to prevent burning. You want the garlic to smell good but not turn brown. Next, pour in a 15 oz can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Stir it well to mix with the garlic. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Add 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together nicely. Now, it’s time to add 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Stir the mixture well. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and mix well with the sauce. This adds color and nutrients to your dish. Finally, add your cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually. Mix until you achieve your desired creaminess. This method ensures every bite is packed with flavor. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. Enjoy your meal! To change the creaminess, you can use less cream. Start with half a cup. If you want it richer, add more cream. You can also use whole milk for a lighter sauce. Another fun tip is to add some of the pasta water. This water helps to make the sauce smoother. Just add a little at a time until it feels right. The right spices can make your dish pop! I love using dried basil and oregano. They bring depth to the sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Try adding garlic powder for extra flavor. Taste as you go to find the right balance. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper. This step is key for a well-seasoned dish. Fresh ingredients shine in this dish. Add spinach near the end of cooking. This keeps it bright and tender. If you use fresh herbs, add them just before serving. They bring vibrant flavor and color. For tomatoes, canned is great, but fresh ones add a nice touch. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best taste. Follow these tips for a fantastic flavor experience. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} You can add protein to your creamy tomato and spinach pasta for a heartier meal. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sausage all work well. Just sauté the protein in the skillet before adding the tomatoes. This way, the flavors blend nicely. If you want a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or lentils. They add protein and fiber while keeping the dish filling. If you need a dairy-free version, switch the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream. These alternatives keep the pasta creamy and delicious. For cheese, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan. They provide that cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just remember to adjust the seasoning, as these substitutes can change the taste a bit. Using seasonal veggies can uplift your pasta dish. In spring, try adding asparagus or peas. In summer, add zucchini or bell peppers for freshness. Fall brings great options like butternut squash or mushrooms, which add depth. You can sauté these vegetables before mixing them into the creamy sauce. This way, you create a vibrant and colorful dish that celebrates the season. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. After you enjoy your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, save any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the pasta to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, you can enjoy it again. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. Allow the pasta to cool completely. Then, pack it in a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This way, it stays fresh. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, you have a few options. The best way is on the stove. Add a bit of water or cream to the skillet. Heat it over low heat, stirring gently. This keeps the pasta creamy. If you use a microwave, place it in a bowl. Add a splash of water, cover it, and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst until warm. For a tasty touch, top with more Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your meal! You can use any pasta you like. I recommend penne or fettuccine. They hold the sauce well and create a great bite. Other shapes like rigatoni or spaghetti also work. Choose what you enjoy most! Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy. Store the sauce in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove before adding pasta. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For lactose-free, swap heavy cream with a plant-based cream. You can also skip the cheese or use vegan cheese. These swaps help you enjoy the meal without worry. A fresh salad is a great choice. You might try a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread also pairs well, adding a nice crunch. Roasted vegetables can round out this meal beautifully too. To make this creamy tomato and spinach pasta vegan, use plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavors without any dairy. Check the [Full Recipe] for more details. This blog post detailed how to make creamy tomato and spinach pasta. We covered essential ingredients, pasta types, and garnishes. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions tailored for perfect results. I also included helpful tips, variations, and storage advice for leftovers. With this recipe, you can create a tasty meal at home. Explore different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey!](https://spoonfulsavory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/750c95c5-8912-45b5-be7e-e5a0728abfde-250x250.webp)
