Before diving into the delicious depths of this creamy tomato spinach pasta, let’s talk about what would complement it perfectly. Picture this: a fresh, tangy salad tossed with a zesty Italian dressing. Something to balance the richness of that creamy sauce. A side of garlic bread is always a hit, too—who can resist a warm loaf dripping with butter and garlic? For those wishing to keep things light, a simple green salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon brings a refreshing contrast that’s hard to beat.
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous, pair this meal with some grilled vegetables. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta. Or, you could go classic with a red wine like Chianti or a crisp, sparkling white wine to elevate your dining experience. Ready for adventure? Let’s whip up some creamy tomato spinach pasta!
Whenever I whip up creamy tomato spinach pasta, it’s like a warm hug from the inside. This dish effortlessly marries comfort with nutrition.
As a busy food blogger and registered dietitian, I appreciate recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. This isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Moreover, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. I love that I can use a mix of pantry staples and fresh produce, ensuring I’m not only cooking efficiently but also keeping things healthy.
The beauty lies in the creamy goodness balanced by the vibrant flavors of tomatoes and spinach. Plus, many of the ingredients are ones I can keep on hand, so when the craving strikes, I’m ready!
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The Ingredients I Use
Let me walk you through the key players in this delightful dish:
1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The foundation of our cooking. I love using a quality oil. A good brand can elevate the flavor, making even the simplest of dishes pop.
2. Garlic: Three cloves might seem like a lot, but who doesn’t love the aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan? It’s fragrant and provides a background flavor that pulls the dish together.
3. Onion: Just a half of a medium onion, finely diced. It adds sweetness and depth, cooking down to a perfect soft texture.
4. Dried Sweet Basil & Oregano: These herbs perfectly complement the tomato base. They contribute a Mediterranean warmth that feels welcoming.
5. Crushed San Marzano Tomatoes: The star ingredient! These tomatoes are known for their rich flavor and lower acidity. Trust me, they make a world of difference.
6. Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: I use about eight ounces of cream cheese, specifically recommending the Kite Hill brand. It’s creamy, tangy, and brings that wonderful richness without dairy.
7. Penne Pasta: Sixteen ounces of my favorite pasta shape, but you can substitute with what you have on hand! It’s versatile and holds sauce beautifully.
8. Fresh Baby Spinach: Six ounces add nutritional power and a lovely color contrast. Plus, it wilts perfectly into the sauce.
9. Seasoning: I sprinkle in black pepper, fine sea salt, and optionally, red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Lastly, nutritional yeast adds a hint of umami flavor—trust me, it’s worth it.
10. Garnish: Fresh basil leaves and vegan cashew parmesan are optional but take the presentation up a notch if you’re feeling fancy!
Ingredients List
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ medium onion, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons dried sweet basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 30 ounces crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 8 ounces plain dairy-free cream cheese (Kite Hill brand recommended)
- 16 ounces penne pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
- 6 ounces fresh baby spinach
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
- Fresh basil leaves and vegan cashew parmesan for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
Let’s jump into the cooking steps. Roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this flavorful dish.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen and hint at the deliciousness to come!
Step 2: Incorporate the Herbs
Next, add the dried basil and oregano to the pan. Stir the mixture well, allowing the herbs to bloom in the heat for an additional minute.
You’ll start to notice that the garlic and herbs create a lovely fragrant combination that sets the stage for everything else.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Now it’s time to introduce the crushed San Marzano tomatoes. Carefully pour them into the skillet, stirring to combine with those sautéed goodies. It’s like magic watching the vivid red tomatoes blend into the mixture.
Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken and concentrate its flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream Cheese
Once your sauce is thickened, it’s time to stir in that dairy-free cream cheese. Cut it into smaller chunks before adding so it melts more efficiently. Stir until smooth and fully combined, transforming the vibrant tomato sauce into a creamy delight.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
At this point, sprinkle in the black pepper, fine sea salt, and red pepper flakes if using. This step can be a game-changer. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you want a deeper umami flavor, add the nutritional yeast and stir until it’s well mixed in.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While your sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. You’ll want it to be al dente, as it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining! This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated, adding a little reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. This is where the magic happens.
Step 8: Add Fresh Spinach
Finally, add the fresh baby spinach into the pasta mixture. It will wilt down in a matter of seconds. Toss it gently until the spinach is lightly wilted but still vibrant.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Serve the creamy tomato spinach pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of vegan cashew parmesan if desired. You’ve created a fragrant, creamy dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Information
Recipe Notes
1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Opting for high-quality olive oil is essential. It not only adds flavor but also healthy fats. Look for cold-pressed varieties for the best taste.
2. Cream Cheese: Choose a vegan or dairy-free cream cheese that you love. It should enhance the overall dish without overpowering the other flavors.
3. San Marzano Tomatoes: These tomatoes are special due to their sweeter flesh and fewer seeds. They bring a depth of flavor that’s difficult to achieve with standard canned tomatoes.
4. Spinach: You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just remember that the cooking time will vary slightly.
5. Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices such as Italian seasoning, thyme, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for an added zing.
6. Pasta Variations: You can swap penne for gluten-free pasta, farfalle, or even whole wheat versions based on your dietary preferences.
Recipe Variations
Creativity in the kitchen is key! Here are some enjoyable variations to try:
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein and substance.
- Vegetarian Upgrade: Consider incorporating roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Cheesy Option: If you’re not dairy-free, feel free to use regular cream cheese or add a sprinkle of mozzarella on top before baking for a melty finish.
- Herbed Twist: Experiment with different herbs such as fresh parsley, thyme, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish.
- One-Pan Wonder: Bake the assembled pasta in a casserole dish with a sprinkle of cheese on top for a baked pasta dish.
Conclusion
Creamy tomato spinach pasta isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s an experience that comforts, delights, and nourishes. This recipe checks all the boxes: simplicity, nutrition, and flavor. The rich creaminess blends exquisitely with the tantalizing tang of tomatoes.
I hope this journey through ingredients, cooking steps, and variations satisfies your cravings and encourages creativity in your kitchen. Let me know how your version turns out or what unique twists you add. No matter how you make it, I can guarantee this dish will become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite!
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Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta – Cheap Delicious Meals
Description
Whenever I whip up creamy tomato spinach pasta, it's like a warm hug from the inside. This dish effortlessly marries comfort with nutrition.
As a busy food blogger and registered dietitian, I appreciate recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. This isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s jump into the cooking steps. Roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this flavorful dish.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen and hint at the deliciousness to come!
Step 2: Incorporate the Herbs
-
Next, add the dried basil and oregano to the pan. Stir the mixture well, allowing the herbs to bloom in the heat for an additional minute.
-
You'll start to notice that the garlic and herbs create a lovely fragrant combination that sets the stage for everything else.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
-
Now it's time to introduce the crushed San Marzano tomatoes. Carefully pour them into the skillet, stirring to combine with those sautéed goodies. It’s like magic watching the vivid red tomatoes blend into the mixture.
-
Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken and concentrate its flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream Cheese
-
Once your sauce is thickened, it's time to stir in that dairy-free cream cheese. Cut it into smaller chunks before adding so it melts more efficiently. Stir until smooth and fully combined, transforming the vibrant tomato sauce into a creamy delight.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
-
At this point, sprinkle in the black pepper, fine sea salt, and red pepper flakes if using. This step can be a game-changer. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you want a deeper umami flavor, add the nutritional yeast and stir until it's well mixed in.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
-
While your sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. You’ll want it to be al dente, as it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining! This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
-
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated, adding a little reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. This is where the magic happens.
Step 8: Add Fresh Spinach
-
Finally, add the fresh baby spinach into the pasta mixture. It will wilt down in a matter of seconds. Toss it gently until the spinach is lightly wilted but still vibrant.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
-
Serve the creamy tomato spinach pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of vegan cashew parmesan if desired. You’ve created a fragrant, creamy dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 272kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.7g6%
- Saturated Fat 0.8g4%
- Cholesterol 8mg3%
- Sodium 847mg36%
- Total Carbohydrate 47g16%
- Dietary Fiber 9g36%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 16g32%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Opting for high-quality olive oil is essential. It not only adds flavor but also healthy fats. Look for cold-pressed varieties for the best taste.
2. Cream Cheese: Choose a vegan or dairy-free cream cheese that you love. It should enhance the overall dish without overpowering the other flavors.
3. San Marzano Tomatoes: These tomatoes are special due to their sweeter flesh and fewer seeds. They bring a depth of flavor that's difficult to achieve with standard canned tomatoes.
4. Spinach: You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just remember that the cooking time will vary slightly.
5. Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices such as Italian seasoning, thyme, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for an added zing.
6. Pasta Variations: You can swap penne for gluten-free pasta, farfalle, or even whole wheat versions based on your dietary preferences.
