Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce

Name: Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Spaghetti; Fresh spinach; Canned diced tomatoes; Heavy cream; Garlic; Yellow onion; Extra virgin olive oil

Posted on February 25, 2025

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Have you ever tasted a dish that feels like a warm hug? Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked spaghetti intertwined with vibrant green spinach and drizzled in a velvety tomato cream sauce. This Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce

Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe is designed for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready to serve your family or friends.

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Enjoy the health benefits of leafy greens while indulging in a comforting pasta dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: Opt for high-quality spaghetti; it holds up well when tossed in sauce.
Fresh Spinach: Use organic spinach if possible; it adds vibrant color and nutrients.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Choose no-salt-added varieties for better control over sodium levels.
Heavy Cream: For that luscious texture; half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Onion: Yellow onion works best here; it adds sweetness when sautéed.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it enhances the overall flavor profile.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Cream: Stir in canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Allow them to simmer for about five minutes before pouring in the heavy cream.

Mix in Spinach: Gradually add fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, which should take about two minutes. Stir everything well to combine.

Toss the Pasta: Add cooked spaghetti into the skillet with sauce and toss gently until evenly coated. Heat through for another minute if necessary.

Serve Hot!: Transfer your wonderfully creamy spaghetti onto plates or bowls. Garnish as desired and serve immediately for best flavor!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh rather than canned or frozen ingredients to enhance flavor and texture.

Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Always cook pasta al dente as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with hot sauce.

Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: Consider grating some Parmesan cheese on top before serving; it adds depth and richness to each bite.

Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap out spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard depending on preference or availability.

Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container; they can last up to three days while maintaining flavor.

This recipe works wonderfully as a meal prep option for busy weekdays. Prepare a larger batch and store individual portions in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, making weeknight dinners hassle-free.

FAQs

Can I make Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegetarian and showcases delicious vegetables alongside pasta. If you want to enhance its nutrition further, consider adding more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce without altering the integrity of the dish.

How do I store leftovers of Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain its creamy consistency while warming it on low heat on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can easily substitute frozen spinach for fresh in this recipe. Just ensure you thaw and drain it well before adding it to your sauce to avoid extra moisture that could make your dish watery.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to experiment by adding different proteins like shrimp or sausage for added flavor. You can also incorporate different types of cheese, such as Parmesan or feta, into your Spaghetti & Spinach with Tomato Cream Sauce for a unique twist.