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Pasta dishes hold a special place in the hearts of many home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Their universal appeal lies in their versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to bring comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Among the myriad of pasta recipes, Creamy Tomato Spinach Penne Delight stands out as a quintessential weeknight meal. This dish combines the richness of cream, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the vibrant freshness of spinach, delivering a flavorful experience that is both nourishing and indulgent.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Penne

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Tomato Spinach Penne Delight, a pasta dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines rich cream, tangy tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a deliciously satisfying meal. It's nutritious too, packed with vitamins and antioxidants from its ingredients. Easily customizable, you can add protein or other veggies for variety. Discover how to create a dish that's both wholesome and indulgent, making every bite a delightful experience.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with their juices

1 cup heavy cream

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

4 cups fresh baby spinach

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Additional grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water generously seasoned with salt to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 11-13 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water for later use. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet set over medium heat, warm the olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté gently for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

      Add Tomatoes: Carefully pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in the optional red pepper flakes (for a hint of heat) and the Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors well.

        Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the heavy cream. Stir until the cream is fully integrated into the sauce, then let it simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly.

          Add Spinach: Gradually stir the fresh spinach into the skillet, continuing to cook until the spinach is wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce appears too thick, slowly mix in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.

              Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and blends into the creamy sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preference.

                Serve: Spoon the creamy tomato spinach penne onto serving plates or bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4