Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the vibrant green spinach into the bubbling sauce, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, transporting me back to sun-drenched summer days in my grandmother’s kitchen. This Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta with Creamy Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a heartfelt embrace of home-cooked goodness. The balance of fresh, hearty spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a comforting yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its quick prep and vegetarian-friendly goodness, this recipe is exactly what you need to make mealtime a delightful experience while keeping things simple. Wondering how to bring a taste of Italy to your table tonight? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together! Why is Spinach Tomato Pasta a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Finest: This Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta is crafted with easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect even for novice cooks. Vibrant Flavors: The combination of fresh spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes transforms everyday pasta into a colorful feast for the senses. Versatile Meal: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or try it vegetarian with Spinach Feta Stuffed Salmon. Quick & Convenient: With a cooking time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when unexpected guests drop by. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving family or entertaining friends, the rich, creamy sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal! Spinach Tomato Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Paneer Pasta – A hearty base that complements the sauce beautifully; substitute with penne or rigatoni for a different texture. For the Sauce • Sun-Dried Tomato Oil – Adds a rich, tangy flavor that makes the sauce unforgettable; substitute with olive oil if needed. • Onion – Sweetens the sauce when caramelized for depth; use shallots for a milder taste if preferred. • Garlic – Infuses aromatic goodness into the dish; adjust the quantity based on how much garlic you love! • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Delivers a concentrated, tangy essence; fresh tomatoes can work too, just adjust the cooking time. • Tomato Paste – Intensifies the sauce’s tomato flavor; feel free to omit it for a lighter result. • Chicken Stock – Enhances richness; go for vegetable stock to keep this a vegetarian-friendly dish. • Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates that luscious, creamy texture; half-and-half is a lighter alternative if you’re watching calories. • Parmesan Cheese – Introduces a nutty flavor; swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan option. • Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, and Red Chili Flakes – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your preferred heat level. For the Greens • Fresh Spinach – Adds vibrant color and a nutritious boost; kale can be a good substitute if you have it on hand. • Fresh Basil – Amplifies the flavor profile with its fragrant notes; use dried basil if fresh isn’t available. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta Step 1: Heat the Oil Begin by warming 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat. As the oil shimmers, you’ll know it’s ready. This oil will serve as the base for your creamy sauce, enhancing the flavors of the upcoming ingredients. Step 2: Sauté the Onions Next, add 1 chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent and soft. You want to see it becoming fragrant and slightly caramelized, as this will deepen the dish’s flavor. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes Stir in 2 minced cloves of garlic along with ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook them together for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the garlic is just golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter and spoil the creamy sauce for your spinach tomato pasta. Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. The paste will intensify the sauce’s tomato flavor, creating a rich base for your Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta. Stir well to combine everything evenly; you should see a luscious red sauce forming. Step 5: Add Chicken Stock Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken stock while stirring to deglaze the pan and pick up any bits stuck to the bottom. Once mixed, incorporate ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly and blend deliciously. Step 6: Season the Sauce Sprinkle in kosher salt, black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of red chili flakes, adjusting to taste. Let these seasonings come together beautifully in the sauce, enhancing that comforting flavor profile of the Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta. Give it a final taste and check for balance. Step 7: Cook the Pasta Now, add 8 ounces of paneer pasta to the sauce and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to be about 75% tender, soaking up all those wonderful flavors from the sauce. Step 8: Add Fresh Greens Fold in 2 cups of fresh spinach and a handful of fresh basil until they wilt into the sauce, taking about 2-3 minutes. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water for a smoother consistency. The vibrant greens will brighten the dish beautifully. Step 9: Finish with Cheese Finally, stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating that creamy and decadent texture. This final touch enhances the dish, making your Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta feel indulgent. Serve it in bowls and prepare for compliments! Make Ahead Options These Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta components can easily be prepared ahead of time, making your weeknight meals a breeze! You can chop the onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and toss it lightly in olive oil to prevent sticking; it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a pot, add your prepped pasta, fresh spinach, and basil, and finish by stirring in the Parmesan until melted. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort! Storage Tips for Spinach Tomato Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep your Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta fresh and flavorful. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 1 month. The cream may slightly change texture, but the taste will remain delightful upon reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir often to prevent sticking. Serving Tip: Always garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan when serving reheated leftovers to brighten the dish and enhance its appeal! What to Serve with Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta A delightful spread can elevate your meal and create a warm dining experience that everyone will cherish. Garlic Bread: The buttery, crispy texture of garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly. This classic pairing adds a satisfying crunch and indulgent flavor that makes this meal feel even more comforting. Crisp Green Salad: A mix of fresh greens with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. Incorporating seasonal ingredients brings vibrant colors and flavors to your table, enhancing the overall dining experience. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized brussels sprouts or zucchini can balance the dish’s creaminess. Their slight sweetness and smoky char infuse your meal with additional depth and character. Lemon Herb Quinoa: The bright, zesty flavors of lemon herb quinoa complement the creamy spinach tomato pasta beautifully. This healthy side lends a nutritional boost while enhancing the overall flavor profile. White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or pinot grigio pairs exquisitely with the dish, highlighting the richness of the creamy sauce. This refreshing drink cleanses the palate between bites, letting each flavor shine through. Panna Cotta: For dessert, indulge in a light vanilla panna cotta. Its silky texture and mild sweetness create a lovely conclusion to a fulfilling meal, leaving everyone with a smile on their faces. Spinach Tomato Pasta Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this dish according to your preferences! Vegan-Friendly: Substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock and heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based version. Whole Wheat Twist: Use whole wheat pasta instead for added fiber and a wholesome flavor. Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrition and add colorful layers of flavor. Red Pepper Flakes: Want more heat? Increase the red chili flakes or add sliced fresh chili peppers for a spicy kick. Pesto Pleasure: Stir in a spoonful of homemade or store-bought pesto for an extra burst of herbal freshness. This twist brings an Italian flair to your dish that’s simply irresistible. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying protein boost. This will turn your pasta into a more filling meal, perfect for a family feast. Cheesy Delight: Swap Parmesan for a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a gooey, melted topping that’s a real treat. Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts to give your dish a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully. As your culinary journey continues, you might also enjoy exploring Healthy Broccoli Pasta or the hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli. Each recipe holds its own unique delights, expanding your repertoire! Expert Tips for Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta Perfect Garlic Sauté: Avoid burning the garlic by keeping the heat at medium and stirring constantly. Burnt garlic can ruin the fresh flavor of your spinach tomato pasta. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before serving. You might want to add more salt or red chili flakes based on your heat preferences. This ensures balanced flavors. Pasta Consistency: If your pasta becomes too thick while simmering, add a little more chicken stock or water to achieve your desired consistency for a creamy sauce. Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Using fresh basil adds brightness to the dish. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity as they are more concentrated in flavor. Pasta Type: While paneer pasta is delicious, feel free to use penne or rigatoni for a different texture that holds the sauce well. This gives versatility to your spinach tomato pasta dish. Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best spinach for my pasta? Absolutely! Look for fresh spinach with vibrant green leaves and no dark spots or wilted edges. You want it to feel crisp and firm; this ensures you’ll have the best flavor in your Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta. How should I store leftover Spinach Tomato Pasta? You can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, it retains its freshness and flavors. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 1 month. Just remember, while the taste remains, the cream’s texture might change a little during the freezing process. Can I freeze this Spinach Tomato Pasta? If so, how? Yes, you can freeze it! To do so, let the pasta cool completely, then divide it into portions and place them in airtight freezer bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a saucepan, stirring in a splash of chicken stock or cream to restore the creamy texture. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? Not a problem! If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, simply add a little more chicken stock or water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help keep your Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta creamy and smooth. Just stir well and allow it to simmer on low heat as you make adjustments. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the heavy whipping cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream for a vegan alternative. Plus, selecting gluten-free pasta ensures everyone at your table can savor this comforting dish without a worry! Is this pasta safe for pets or those with allergies? While many ingredients are safe for pets, be cautious with onion and garlic as they can be toxic to dogs and cats. If you have allergies to dairy, make sure to substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it safe for everyone. Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta That Will Brighten Your Day Enjoy this Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta with a creamy sauce, a comforting dish perfect for a quick dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces Paneer Pasta Substitute with penne or rigatoni for a different textureFor the Sauce2 tablespoons Sun-Dried Tomato Oil Substitute with olive oil if needed1 Onion Chopped2 cloves Garlic Minced½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Chopped2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Optional1 cup Chicken Stock Use vegetable stock for vegetarian½ cup Heavy Whipping Cream Substitute with half-and-half for lighter option½ cup Parmesan Cheese Shreddedto taste Kosher Saltto taste Black Pepper¼ teaspoon Red Chili Flakes Adjust to preferred heat levelFor the Greens2 cups Fresh Spinach Substitute with kale if neededto taste Fresh Basil Use dried basil if fresh isn’t available Equipment Medium Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by warming 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat.Next, add 1 chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent and soft.Stir in 2 minced cloves of garlic along with ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes.Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken stock while stirring to deglaze the pan.Sprinkle in kosher salt, black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of red chili flakes, adjusting to taste.Now, add 8 ounces of paneer pasta to the sauce and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes.Fold in 2 cups of fresh spinach and fresh basil until they wilt into the sauce.Finally, stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a saucepan, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
