Easy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
User Reviews
5
Easy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Description
Easy Tomato and Spinach Pasta begins by simmering olive oil with crushed red pepper flakes and grape tomatoes until the tomatoes burst and release their juices. Garlic is added briefly for aroma, followed by white wine or chicken broth to create a flavorful base. Fresh spinach is stirred in near the end to wilt gently without overcooking.
Meanwhile, penne pasta is cooked separately to al dente in salted boiling water, then drained, reserving some cooking water for the sauce. The pasta is combined with the tomato and spinach sauce, using reserved water to adjust consistency and achieve a smooth, glossy coating on the noodles. Salt and pepper can be adjusted to taste.
The dish is served immediately, optionally topped with Parmesan cheese. It presents a fresh, lightly spiced vegetarian pasta that blends acidic tomato brightness and mild spinach earthiness, enhanced by garlic and wine flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta or your preferred pasta variety
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 2 pints grape tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 2 cups spinach fresh
- Parmesan Cheese for serving, optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add oil to a large, wide pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add in the crushed red pepper flakes, tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and cook until the tomatoes begin to burst and give off their juices, about 9 to 10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to gently press the tomatoes if they're not bursting on their own.
- Add in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in the wine and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Finally, stir in the spinach and cook until slightly wilted.
- In the meantime, add the penne into the boiling water and cook for 9 to 10 minutes, or until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Toss the pasta immediately into the pot with the sauce and stir well to combine. Add in some of the reserved cooking water, if needed. Taste and add additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Remove from heat and divide among serving bowls. Top with cheese and serve at once!
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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