How to Make Healthy Mediterranean Tomato and Spinach Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, Mediterranean Tomato and Spinach Pasta is the perfect choice! This dish is colorful, full of flavors, and easy to make. It brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen in less than 30 minutes. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Make This Recipe

This pasta dish is not only simple, but it’s also healthy! With fresh tomatoes and spinach, plus the savory taste of Kalamata olives, you’ll feel great serving this to your family or friends. Plus, it’s quick enough for busy weekdays but impressive enough for a weekend dinner. Everyone will love it!

How to Make Mediterranean Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic and onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red onion, cooking until fragrant.
3. Add the tomatoes: Toss in the cherry tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the tomatoes soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Wilt the spinach: Add spinach and stir until wilted. Mix in the Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean touch.
5. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until coated.
6. Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy warm!

How to Serve Mediterranean Tomato and Spinach Pasta

This pasta is great served warm on a plate. You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top and a few extra Kalamata olives for color. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.

How to Store Mediterranean Tomato and Spinach Pasta

If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water if needed.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Tomato and Spinach Pasta

• Make sure to reserve the pasta water; it helps bind the sauce and adds flavor.
• Use fresh spinach for the best taste and texture.
• Feel free to adjust the number of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.

Variation

You can switch up this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you want some protein, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or spaghetti.

Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this Mediterranean pasta recipe is vegetarian! Just skip the Parmesan cheese if you want it to be fully vegan.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook it when you’re ready.