Delicious Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta ($0.49)
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped, 340g, 1.5 cups, $0.78)
- 2 garlic cloves (chopped, 1 Tbsp, $0.12)
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil ($0.18)
- 14.5 oz. canned diced tomatoes (1 can, $0.96)
- ½ tsp dried oregano leaves ($0.12)
- ½ tsp dried basil leaves ($0.13)
- ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes ($0.02)
- ½ tsp table salt ($0.02)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper ($0.08)
- 2 Tbsp concentrated tomato paste ($0.14)
- ½ cup tap water ($0.00)
- 2 oz cream cheese ($0.46)
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (30g, $0.51)
- 4 oz fresh spinach leaves ($0.79)
Instructions
Step 1
Before we get started on our Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta, let’s set ourselves up for success by gathering everything you need. Begin by chopping up one medium onion and mincing three cloves of garlic; their aromas will add so much flavor to our dish. Next, wash about four cups of fresh spinach and set it aside to dry a bit. Now, grab a can of diced tomatoes, some heavy cream, and your favorite pasta—spaghetti or penne works beautifully here. Don’t forget to measure out a teaspoon each of salt and pepper, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Having everything ready will make the cooking process a breeze, so you can focus on enjoying the process and the delicious results!
Step 2
Start by filling a large pot with water, making sure there's enough room for the pasta to move around as it cooks. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the water is bubbling vigorously, add your pasta to the pot. Stir it gently to prevent sticking and let it cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, or until it reaches a tender but firm texture—just shy of al dente is perfect for this dish. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is cooked through but still has a slight bite to it. Give it a taste to check! Once it's done, carefully drain the pasta in a colander, letting the steam escape as you shake it gently to remove any excess water. This step sets the stage for the creamy sauce you’re about to create.
Step 3
While your pasta is bubbling away, it's time to whip up that creamy tomato sauce! Start by dicing the onion into small pieces and mincing the garlic until it’s nice and fine. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them gently, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want the onions to become soft and translucent, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for that lovely, tender texture that adds so much flavor to your sauce.
Step 4
Now it’s time to bring all those lovely flavors together! Start by adding the diced tomatoes, along with their juices, into the skillet. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, crushed red pepper, salt, and a few cracks of fresh black pepper. Give everything a good stir until it's nicely mixed. Next, we’ll add in the tomato paste. Pour it into the skillet along with half a cup of water. Stir it all together, making sure the tomato paste is fully incorporated into the sauce. You want to see that vibrant red color come together beautifully! Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 5
Once your tomato sauce is bubbling gently, lower the heat to a cozy simmer. Grab your cream cheese and cut it into smaller chunks, which will make it easier to melt. Add those pieces directly into the skillet with the sauce. Using a whisk, stir the mixture patiently as the cream cheese begins to dissolve. Keep whisking until the sauce transforms into a silky, creamy texture—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Once the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into the sauce, giving it a rich, velvety finish. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is smooth and glossy, just waiting to coat your pasta beautifully!
Step 6
To start, gently add the fresh spinach to the skillet with your creamy tomato sauce. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir the spinach into the sauce, letting it cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the leaves have wilted down and the vibrant green color deepens. Next, introduce the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until every strand is beautifully coated. This should take just a minute or two. Give it a taste and feel free to sprinkle in some salt and pepper to your liking. Once everything is well mixed and heated through, you’re ready to dish it up! Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of pasta.
Nutrition Information
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My Tip
To elevate the creamy tomato and spinach pasta, add a splash of the starchy pasta cooking water to your sauce before mixing in the drained penne. This will help create a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Leftovers
To store your creamy tomato and spinach pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.
Make It Your Own
For a delightful twist, try swapping the penne pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta to add a nutty flavor and boost the fiber content. This small change will make your creamy tomato and spinach pasta even more satisfying!
