The most beautiful creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

A quick skillet pasta dish like this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is ideal for such occasions. It necessitates only a handful of ingredients, cooks up rapidly, and leaves one feeling satiated and content. As Monday approaches once again, and a long week lies ahead, I trust this recipe will expedite and enhance your dinner time this week. Enjoy!

Can I use a different pasta ?

While I used regular pasta, whole wheat pasta would also be suitable, lending additional fiber and nutrients to create a more well-rounded meal. Alternatively, you can swap the pasta shape for another short variety, such as bowtie pasta or rotini.

What are the nutritional benefits of creamy tomato and spinach pasta?

Specifically, when considering a serving of 1 cup of hot tomato and spinach pasta from Souplantation & Sweet Tomatoes, which is categorized under “Hot Pastas & Kitchen Favorites,” it contains 290 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is composed of 54% carbohydrates, 33% fat, and 13% protein. Additionally, this dish provides a good source of protein, offering 18% of your Daily Value.

How can I swap cream cheese?

This rendition of Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta utilizes a touch of cream cheese and Parmesan to render a regular tomato sauce exceptionally rich and creamy. For those disinclined towards cream cheese, the addition of a splash (approximately 1/4 cup) of half and half or heavy cream can yield a similar effect.

How can I use frozen spinach?

If fresh spinach is not within your budget, approximately 8oz. of thawed and moisture-squeezed frozen spinach serves as an alternative. This dish also pairs well with sliced mushrooms. Simply sauté the mushrooms with the onions and garlic at the onset. Furthermore, a plain creamy tomato sauce is another viable option.

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb. penne pasta .
• 1 yellow onion .
• 2 cloves garlic .
• 1 tablespoon olive oil .
• 1 15oz. can diced tomatoes .
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano .
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil .
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper (optional) .
• 1/2 teaspoon salt .
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste .
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste .
• 2 ounces of cream chees .
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese .
• 4 ounces of fresh spinach .

Instructions

1. Bring a generous pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender (7-10 minutes). Use a colander to drain the pasta after it has cooked .
2. While the pasta is cooking, prep the indulgent tomato sauce by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic . Sauté the onion, garlic, and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent (3-5 minutes).
3. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), oregano, basil, crushed red pepper, salt, and freshly cracked pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine. Add the tomato paste and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet, stirring until the tomato paste has mixed into the sauce.
4. . Reduce the heat to low. Cut the cream cheese into pieces and add them to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Employ a whisk to meld the cream cheese into the sauce until it is velvety. Then, incorporate the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it is fully integrated .
5. Introduce the fresh spinach to the skillet and gently stir it into the sauce until it wilts (2-3 minutes). Add the pasta and blend it well with the luscious tomato sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve the dish warm .

Equipment

• Stainless Steel Pots and Pans .
• Whisk .
• Measuring Cups and Spoons .

Nutrition Information