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This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Spinach is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and the creamy texture of heavy cream. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal for the whole family. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation techniques, and the reasons why this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Spinach

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Tomato Basil Pasta with Spinach, a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and rich heavy cream. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Learn how to craft the ideal sauce and choose the right pasta for a wonderfully satisfying meal. Enjoy the health benefits of fresh ingredients while impressing your family with a comforting dinner they’ll love.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) of your favorite pasta (fettuccine or penne recommended)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup fresh spinach leaves, washed and torn into smaller pieces

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until it becomes fragrant. Be careful to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

      Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 5-7 minutes, enabling the flavors to develop and blend together.

        Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and gently fold in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If you find the sauce too thick for your liking, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

          Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Add the washed spinach leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts down and the cheese melts fully, creating a rich and luscious sauce.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Carefully fold the cooked pasta into the creamy tomato sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.

              Serve: With everything well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your pasta hot, garnished with additional chopped basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta in warmed bowls and add a fresh basil leaf on top of each serving. A drizzle of olive oil can enhance the visual appeal as well as the flavor.