Noodles Co Pasta Fresca
Bright, fresh, and irresistibly flavorful, this Noodles Co Pasta Fresca recipe is a perfect harmony of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Featuring tender penne pasta tossed with sautéed garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, vibrant baby spinach, and sweet red onions, this dish is elevated by a tangy balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy pasta recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. With its fresh basil garnish and versatile vegetarian appeal, Pasta Fresca is a delightful combination of comfort food and gourmet flair. Serve it hot and watch it disappear!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz Penne pasta
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups Fresh baby spinach
- 1 small Red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Water for cooking pasta
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Add the cherry tomatoes and red onions to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to combine with the vegetables.
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pour the mixture over the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
If the pasta seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1436 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.2 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.5 g | 112% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 3398 mg | 148% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 152.0 g | 55% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.6 g | 63% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.4 g | ||
| Protein | 61.5 g | 123% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1100 mg | 85% | |
| Iron | 8.0 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 2287 mg | 49% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
