Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner: One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta! This dish is a delightful combination of tender pasta, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes, all cooked together in one pot for an effortless meal. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also offers a burst of color that will brighten your dinner table. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Let’s dive into this comforting and nourishing recipe that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
- Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and golden. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring this delightful mixture to a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, toss in the pasta. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, gently stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts beautifully. This adds a lovely freshness to the dish.
- Serve warm, topping each bowl with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to experiment with your choice of pasta—whole wheat, gluten-free, or even a fun shape like rotini!
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner the following day.
Cooking Techniques
This One-Pot Pasta dish is perfect for those who enjoy simple cooking techniques. Sautéing the onion and garlic at the beginning enhances the overall flavor, while simmering the pasta in the broth allows it to absorb all the delicious tastes, resulting in a creamy texture without the need for additional cream. Plus, cooking everything in one pot makes it a streamlined and efficient meal prep!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes! Frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pot.
- What type of pasta is best for this recipe? Any pasta will work, but shorter shapes like penne or fusilli will hold the sauce better.
- Can I add protein to this dish? Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp can be a wonderful addition for extra protein.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delicious, simple, and hearty One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta that truly delivers on both flavor and ease. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So gather your loved ones around the table, serve up this vibrant meal, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings. Happy cooking!