Spinach Penne Toss
Satisfy your pasta cravings with this vibrant and easy Spinach Penne Toss! Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients, this 30-minute recipe pairs tender penne pasta with sautéed garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a generous helping of baby spinach for a veggie-loaded delight. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a hint of heat, while parmesan cheese creates a light, creamy sauce when combined with reserved pasta water. This one-pan wonder is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a flavorful and healthy meal in no time. Serve this colorful dish as is or with a side of crusty bread for an irresistible Italian-inspired feast.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 5 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.5 cups reserved pasta water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
Lower the heat slightly and add the baby spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until wilted.
Season the mixture with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the vegetables.
Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until the pasta is coated and a light sauce forms. You may not need all of the water.
Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again until well combined and the cheese is melted.
Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1902 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 58.9 g | 76% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.4 g | 102% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 3854 mg | 168% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 271.4 g | 99% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.4 g | 73% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.9 g | ||
| Protein | 81.9 g | 164% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1074 mg | 83% | |
| Iron | 18.6 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 1467 mg | 31% | |
*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.
