Garlicky Spinach Tomato Pasta Quick and Flavorful Meal

December 8, 2025January 18, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz spaghetti or preferred pasta type

– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 small onion, diced finely

– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

– 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional

To make garlicky spinach tomato pasta, gather all these ingredients first. Using fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes enhances the flavor. The garlic and onion create a great base. You can adjust the red pepper flakes for spice. If you love cheese, Parmesan adds a nice touch. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish vibrant and tasty.

You can swap out pasta types based on your preference. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work well, too. Fresh basil gives a lovely aroma and color. Keep everything ready for a smooth cooking process. This organization makes cooking fun and easy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot.

– Add 8 oz of your favorite pasta.

– Cook until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

– Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sautéing Aromatics

– Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet.

– Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 small diced onion.

– Cook for 2-3 minutes until the garlic smells great and the onion is soft.

Adding Tomatoes and Spinach

– Pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices.

– Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.

– Add salt and cracked black pepper to taste.

– Let simmer for 5 minutes.

– Stir in 4 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Combining with Pasta

– Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce.

– Toss together well, mixing in reserved pasta water little by little.

– Adjust the sauce until you reach your preferred consistency.

Serving the Dish

– Transfer the pasta to plates or a large bowl.

– Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

– If you like, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Sauce

To make the sauce just right, use reserved pasta water. This water has starch that helps thicken the sauce. Start by adding a little and mix well. Keep adding until the sauce is how you like it. For seasoning, taste as you go. You can adjust the salt and pepper to fit your flavor. This way, you’ll create a sauce that suits your palate perfectly.

Cooking Timing

Timing matters for pasta. Cook it until it is al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. This gives the best bite. After cooking, remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. For garlic, it’s key to sauté it well. Add it to the oil and watch it closely. If it burns, it can taste bitter. Cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Presentation Suggestions

Serving matters for how the dish looks. Use a large bowl or individual plates for serving. Make sure to have a nice pile of pasta that shows the bright colors. A drizzle of olive oil on top makes it look fancy. Don’t forget to add fresh basil leaves. They add a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese is also a great touch. It enhances the taste and makes the dish even more appealing.

Variations

Dietary Adaptations

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your diet. If you need gluten-free pasta, look for brands made from rice or corn. These options taste great and cook well. For vegan adaptations, skip the cheese. You can use nutritional yeast instead. It adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy.

Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to swap out some ingredients. If you want different leafy greens, try kale or arugula. They each bring unique flavors and textures. For tomatoes, you can use different types, like cherry tomatoes or fresh ones. Both options will work well in this dish.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor, consider adding protein. Chicken or shrimp makes this meal more filling. Cook them in the skillet before adding the tomatoes and spinach. You can also try adding herbs and spices. Fresh basil, thyme, or parsley can change the dish’s taste. Experimenting with flavors can make this pasta unique each time.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover garlicky spinach tomato pasta, use airtight containers. This keeps the pasta fresh longer. Let the pasta cool before sealing it. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Tips

You can reheat pasta in two main ways: the microwave or on the stove. For the microwave, place the pasta in a bowl. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. On the stove, add the pasta to a pan. Add a bit of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring gently.

Freezing Options

If you want to save pasta for later, freeze portions in plastic bags or containers. This makes meal prep easy. To thaw, place the pasta in the fridge overnight. For a quick thaw, use the microwave. When ready to eat, reheat it as mentioned above.

FAQs

How do I make the pasta vegetarian?

To make the pasta vegetarian, simply swap any non-vegetarian ingredients. In our recipe, we use olive oil, garlic, and vegetables. All these ingredients are vegetarian. If you would like to add protein, use tofu or chickpeas instead of meat. This keeps the dish full of flavor while making it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Start with about 4-5 medium tomatoes. First, chop them into small pieces. Then, cook them until soft in the skillet. This will take about 5-7 minutes. You can also add a pinch of salt to help them break down. Fresh tomatoes will bring a bright taste to the dish.

How can I make this dish spicy?

If you want to kick up the heat, adjust the red pepper flakes. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more if you like. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the pasta before serving. This adds extra heat and flavor. Just be careful not to overdo it!

What are some side dishes that go well with this pasta?

This pasta pairs great with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette works well. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthy side. Another option is to add crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

How to store leftover garlicky spinach tomato pasta?

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container. It lasts for about 3-4 days in the fridge. When you want to eat it, reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of water to keep it moist.

This blog post covered a simple, tasty pasta dish. We explored the key ingredients, from fresh spinach to garlic, and shared clear cooking steps. I shared tips for perfecting the sauce and ideas for variations. Remember, you can adapt the recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs.

In the end, cooking should be fun and easy. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing meals. I hope you create a dish that you and your loved ones will love. Happy cookin