Description
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
This creamy tomato spinach pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish, with rich tomato sauce, fresh spinach, and gooey melted cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion!
Ingredients
:
12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cups fresh spinach
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
:
Cook the Pasta: Cook the rigatoni or penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the tomato sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Add the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and stir until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy tomato spinach sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and let it melt, creating a cheesy, gooey finish.
Serve: Plate the creamy tomato spinach pasta and serve hot. Enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!
This creamy tomato spinach pasta is the perfect combination of rich flavors and cheesy goodness, making it a delightful meal for any night!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof result. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped before heating your skillet. When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente as it will continue to cook in the sauce. While the pasta boils, start the sauce. The key to deepening the tomato flavor is to let the crushed tomatoes simmer for the full 5-7 minutes. When adding the cream and Parmesan, reduce the heat to low to prevent curdling and stir constantly until fully incorporated. For the spinach, add it in batches if your skillet is full, wilting each addition before adding more. Finally, when combining pasta and sauce, toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece before adding the mozzarella topping.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp on top. A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir complements the tomato and cheese flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta al dente, reserving some water. Sauté garlic, then simmer crushed tomatoes with basil, salt, and pepper. Stir in cream and Parmesan to create a creamy base. Wilt fresh spinach into the sauce. Combine sauce and pasta, thinning with pasta water if needed. Top with mozzarella cheese until melted, then serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best to hold the creamy sauce. Long pasta like spaghetti can also be used.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? This recipe is naturally vegetarian. Ensure your Parmesan cheese is made with vegetarian rennet if required.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can be used, though the sauce will be less rich.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently, then combine with freshly cooked pasta and cheese.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to revive the creamy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta only until al dente, as it softens further in the hot sauce.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- High Heat with Cream: Adding cream to boiling sauce can cause it to separate. Always reduce heat to low when incorporating dairy.
- Underseasoning the Sauce: Tomatoes need ample seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper after simmering.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For best results, shred your own mozzarella and Parmesan.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato spinach pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a spectacularly comforting meal. The balance of tangy tomatoes, rich cream, fresh spinach, and melted cheese is universally appealing and surprisingly straightforward to achieve. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a restaurant-worthy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely dinner with friends. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire.