Looking for a vibrant and delicious dish that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than our Tri Color Rotini with Spinach Spicy Pomodoro Sauce! This Italian-inspired recipe not only boasts a stunning array of colors but also packs a flavorful punch that will leave you craving more. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up a delightful meal that serves four, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make pasta dish that combines the heartiness of tri-color rotini with a zesty, homemade spicy pomodoro sauce. Dive in to discover the secrets behind this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz tri-color rotini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to enhance pasta flavor.
- Add tri-color rotini to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet, stirring to combine with garlic and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken slightly.
- Season tomato sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh chopped basil, reserving some for garnish.
- Drain cooked pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Return pasta to pot.
- Add fresh spinach to the tomato sauce, stirring until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour sauce with spinach over pasta, tossing gently to coat. If sauce seems dry, add reserved pasta water to help coat noodles.
- Transfer to serving plates, garnish with remaining fresh basil, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the best texture, make sure to salt your boiling water generously before adding the tri-color rotini. This will enhance the pasta's flavor and prevent it from tasting bland.
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the rotini. Aim for al dente—slightly firm to the bite—so that it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
- Garlic Gold: When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to let it brown. A light sauté will bring out its aromatic qualities without imparting a bitter taste.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and basil for the best flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly, adding brightness and a burst of freshness.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, add more if you like it spicy!
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid can help loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the pasta hot right after mixing with the sauce. Garnish with extra basil for a beautiful presentation.Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and watch as it becomes a favorite at your dinner table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 434kcal
Carbohydrates: 69g
Protein: 13g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
