Ingredients
Scale
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh tomatoes, tender spinach, and quality pasta make all the difference. I always recommend using fresh produce when possible, especially for the tomatoes, as they form the heart of the sauce. When I first moved to the States, I found that local farmers’ markets were a treasure trove for vibrant veggies, and using those bright, juicy tomatoes really elevates this simple recipe.
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
If you’re looking for substitutions, baby kale works beautifully in place of spinach, and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast can easily replace the cheese for a dairy-free option.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cherry tomatoes (or chopped large tomatoes) to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to release their juices.
- Season the tomato mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer gently so the flavors meld together.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
- Toss in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, about 2 minutes. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening.
- Adjust seasoning and remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
