Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is one of those dishes you’ll always want to keep in your back pocket. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and incredibly comforting perfect for a busy weeknight, but still satisfying enough to serve on a relaxing weekend. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of fresh cherry tomatoes, the earthiness of spinach, and the rich creaminess of a cheese-based sauce. Everything comes together in a single pan, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
One of the best things about this recipe is how the pasta absorbs all the flavor from the vegetable broth as it cooks. Instead of boiling in plain water, the linguine is infused with savory notes even before the cream and cheese are added. A small pinch of chili flakes adds just the right amount of gentle heat to balance out the creaminess.
What is Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta?
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta is a simple pasta dish made with linguine, fresh cherry tomatoes, and spinach, all tossed in a rich sauce made with all-purpose cream, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The vegetable broth serves two purposes, it cooks the pasta and gives it a deeper flavor. The result is a creamy, flavorful bowl of pasta that’s both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces linguine
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 250 ml Nestlé All-Purpose Cream
- 3½ cups vegetable broth
- ¾ cup ricotta cheese
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, onion, and red chili flakes. Cook until fragrant. - Add the tomatoes
Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and release their juices. - Cook the pasta in broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the linguine, cover, and cook — stirring occasionally — until the pasta is al dente. - Add the spinach
Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted. - Make it creamy
Lower the heat and add the all-purpose cream, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the pasta is fully coated and the sauce becomes creamy and silky. - Season and serve
Taste and season with salt and ground black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes whenever possible. They add brightness and natural sweetness to the sauce.
- Do not overcook the spinach, add it at the end so it stays vibrant and fresh.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a small splash of hot broth or reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning after adding the cheeses, as Parmesan can add saltiness to the dish.
- For extra richness, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top before serving.
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, onion, and red chili flakes. Cook until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the linguine, cover, and cook — stirring occasionally — until the pasta is al dente.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted.
- Lower the heat and add the all-purpose cream, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the pasta is fully coated and the sauce becomes creamy and silky.
- Taste and season with salt and ground black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy.
What to Serve with Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This creamy pasta pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread – for soaking up that delicious sauce
- Caesar salad – adds a refreshing crunch
- Broccoli and bacon salad – for a savory, smoky side
- Roasted cauliflower – a light and flavorful vegetable option
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other kinds of pasta?
Yes. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne will work — just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I skip the chili flakes?
Absolutely. If you prefer a completely mild sauce, simply leave them out.
What can I use instead of ricotta?
You can substitute with cream cheese or cottage cheese if ricotta isn’t available.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Every time you prepare this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta, you’ll be reminded that simple ingredients can produce incredibly comforting results. Give it a try, it might just become one of your favorite pasta dishes.
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