If you have ever craved a comforting yet fresh pasta dish that is easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors, then the One Pan Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe marries the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the bright earthiness of fresh spinach, all brought together with the irresistible creaminess of Parmesan cheese and the convenience of cooking everything in a single pan. It not only saves time but also creates an utterly delicious meal that feels both homemade and elevated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—every ingredient is chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color without overpowering the dish. Each one plays a vital role, making your cooking experience joyful and your final dish unforgettable.
- Linguine: Use about 12 ounces to soak up all those wonderful juices and create the perfect bite.
- Cherry tomatoes: Around 2 cups, bursting with natural sweetness and adding vibrant pops of color.
- Fresh spinach: A generous 4 cups of tender greens that wilt down beautifully and provide a fresh contrast.
- Sliced onions: A single medium onion, offering subtle sweetness and depth.
- Garlic cloves: Two cloves, finely chopped to infuse the dish with warm aromatic notes.
- Chopped basil: About 1/4 cup, for that fragrant freshness that ties the dish together.
- Olive oil: Two tablespoons, adding richness and helping to bring the ingredients together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: A pinch to gently awaken the flavors without stealing the spotlight.
- Salt: To taste, sealing in all the natural flavors.
- Boiling water: Approximately 4 cups — essential for cooking the pasta and creating the sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Half a cup, stirred in at the end for luxurious creaminess.
How to Make One Pan Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Having everything prepped and ready before you start cooking is the secret to success with this dish. Chop the garlic and basil, slice the onion, measure out your spinach and cherry tomatoes, and grate your Parmesan. This way, you’ll be able to cook with ease and enjoy the process as much as the final meal.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Your Skillet
Grab a large, deep skillet or pan and layer in the linguine, cherry tomatoes, spinach, sliced onions, garlic, and chopped basil. Drizzle olive oil over the top, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes and salt. This colorful and aromatic assembly is your dish all set to come alive.
Step 3: Add Boiling Water and Begin Cooking
Pour in about 4 cups of boiling water, just enough to cover the pasta and vegetables. Place the pan over medium heat and bring everything to a boil. Stir occasionally with tongs to keep the pasta from sticking and to help all the flavors meld beautifully as the water heats up.
Step 4: Simmer Until the Sauce Thickens
Let the mixture simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes. During this time, most of the water will absorb into the pasta and blend with the juices from the tomatoes and spinach, gradually creating a luscious sauce that clings to every noodle.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the water has mostly evaporated and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from heat. Stir in your grated Parmesan and add more fresh basil if you like. Serve immediately while it’s warm and comforting—trust me, this is when the magic happens.
How to Serve One Pan Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of freshness and texture, sprinkle more grated Parmesan or even some toasted pine nuts on top. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few more basil leaves can instantly elevate the look and flavor of the dish. Don’t be shy to make it yours!
Side Dishes
This pasta stands wonderfully on its own, but if you’re craving a little something on the side, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly. Both add contrasting crunch and brightness without overwhelming the delicate balance of this pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta family-style right from the pan for a casual, inviting vibe. Alternatively, gently twirl the pasta on individual plates with a fork to create fun nests topped with colorful veggies and cheese, making it ideal for dinner parties or date nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to soak up the sauce as it rests, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating to revive its texture.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to one month. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop with a bit of water or olive oil to bring it back to life.
Reheating
Reheat your pasta gently over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the sauce. A quick zap in the microwave works too, just add a little moisture and cover to keep things from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully here, feel free to substitute with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne for a different texture and bite. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply swap the Parmesan cheese for a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast, and skip the olive oil drizzle if preferred. The tomatoes and spinach provide plenty of flavor to keep it delicious.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?
Stirring the pasta occasionally while it cooks and using enough boiling water to keep everything moving will help prevent sticking. The olive oil also aids in keeping the ingredients separate until the sauce forms.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid adding extra water that might thin out your sauce. Fresh spinach is preferred for the best flavor and texture.
What can I do to make the sauce creamier?
For a richer sauce, try adding a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese right at the end along with the Parmesan. This makes the pasta luscious without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this One Pan Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe a try because it’s one of those rare dishes that feels both effortless and special. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, impressing friends without stress, and satisfying those comfort food cravings with a fresh twist. Once you try it, I have a feeling it will become a cherished staple in your recipe collection.
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One Pan Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pan Pasta recipe is a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining linguine, fresh cherry tomatoes, spinach, onions, garlic, and basil in a single deep skillet, it cooks all ingredients together with boiling water to create a flavorful sauce, finished with grated parmesan cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish offers a wholesome, comforting pasta meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- 4 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients you will need for the recipe. This includes chopping the garlic, slicing the onions, halving the cherry tomatoes, and chopping fresh basil. Arranging everything at your workspace will streamline the cooking process.
- Combine in a skillet: In a large deep skillet or pan, add the linguine pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, sliced onions, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and season with crushed red pepper flakes and salt to taste.
- Add water and cook: Pour boiling water into the pan over the ingredients until they are submerged. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally using tongs to prevent the pasta and other ingredients from sticking to the pan.
- Simmer until sauce thickens: Reduce the heat slightly and let the pasta cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Most of the water will be absorbed during this time, and a flavorful sauce will start to develop around the pasta.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pan from heat once the sauce has thickened and the pasta is cooked to your liking. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and add extra basil if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter or cream after adding the parmesan cheese.
- You can substitute linguine with spaghetti or fettuccine if preferred.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melt quality.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh and does not reheat well as the pasta can become soggy.
