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Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes

A quick and flavorful pasta dish packed with cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and mushrooms, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli) Choose a shape that holds sauce well.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds natural sweetness.
  • 1 cup fresh spinach Provides vibrant color and nutrients.
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced Brings umami flavor and meaty texture.
Cooking Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) For topping, can be omitted for a lighter option.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are golden and tender.
  3. Add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
  4. Toss in the fresh spinach and Italian seasoning. Stir until wilted, roughly 1-2 minutes.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Stir everything well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Plate the pasta, topping with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the warmth and flavors right away!

Notes

For added flavor, consider a splash of lemon juice just before serving. Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference. This dish can be made heartier by adding cooked chicken or shrimp.