Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
This pasta dish is a go-to for families seeking simplicity and flavor. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it's a meal everyone will enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins
- Deliciously comforting and satisfying for the whole family
A Perfect Solution for Busy Nights
When life gets hectic, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can be challenging. This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe offers a fantastic solution by combining quick cooking techniques with minimal ingredients. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to serve. The simplicity of this dish makes it an ideal choice for families juggling work, school, and extracurricular activities.
Not only does this recipe save time, but it also provides a nutritious option that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. By using fresh vegetables like spinach and cherry tomatoes, you're packing in vitamins and minerals while keeping the meal light and flavorful. It’s a win-win for your health and your taste buds!
Endless Customization
One of the standout features of this pasta dinner is its versatility. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a meat lover, or simply looking to clean out your fridge, this recipe can adapt to your specific tastes and dietary needs. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to make it your own.
If you prefer adding protein, consider throwing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a hearty twist. This adaptability means you can serve this dish multiple times a month and feel like you're enjoying something new each time. Plus, it's a great way to encourage kids to try different vegetables in a fun and delicious way.
The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta. This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe not only provides nourishment but also evokes feelings of home and family. The delightful aroma of sautéed garlic and fresh herbs fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that brings everyone to the table.
Sharing a meal is one of life's greatest pleasures, and this recipe fosters that connection. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner for two or a lively family gathering, this pasta dish serves as the perfect centerpiece for conversation and laughter. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories you create around the dining table.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Feel free to add any other vegetables or proteins you love!
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Serve
Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!
This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this delightful pasta dish, you're in luck! Storing the pasta is simple; just place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, try to store the sauce separately if possible, as pasta can absorb sauce and become mushy over time.
Reheating leftovers can be done on the stove or in the microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to the pan to keep the pasta moist. Heat over low until warmed through. In the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal even on the busiest of days.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the pasta beautifully. For an extra touch, add some sliced cucumbers or olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Don’t forget about beverages! A chilled glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with this pasta dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or homemade iced tea. These pairings enhance the dining experience and make your meal feel even more special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
→ How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Consider adding red pepper flakes for a kick or fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli work great in this recipe!
→ Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and just cook it when you're ready to eat.
Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe
This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Created by: Amber Walsh
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 63g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 12g