Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort? Look no further than this Cheesy Tomato Spinach Olive Pasta! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful Italian masterpiece that combines the richness of melted mozzarella, the freshness of spinach, and the tangy goodness of black olives. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrients. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how simple ingredients can transform into a deliciously satisfying meal that your whole family will adore!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Drain and rinse the canned diced tomatoes if desired. Slice the black olives if they aren't already pre-sliced.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water to help create a silky sauce if needed.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the tomatoes. Gently toss to coat the pasta with the tomato mixture.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until the spinach begins to wilt and integrate with the pasta and tomatoes.
- Sprinkle the sliced black olives into the pasta mixture, distributing them evenly.
- Reduce heat to low and add the shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring gently to help the cheese melt and create a creamy texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too dry, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to create a smoother consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to fully combine and the cheese to completely melt.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional fresh herbs like basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions for the best texture. This will help it hold up against the sauce and other ingredients.
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh spinach and high-quality diced tomatoes to enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in taste.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or feta for a different twist on flavor.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Depending on your preference, you might want to add more Italian seasoning, salt, or pepper to suit your palate.
- Make it Creamy: If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese along with the mozzarella for extra richness.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to boost the protein content of your pasta.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fresh herbs like basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to elevate its presentation and flavor.
- Leftover Love: This pasta dish makes great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it the next day for a quick lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
