Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Spinach

Ingredients

• 180 g Pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1 tbsp Tomato paste
• 1 cup Crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream
• 3 cups Baby spinach
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 2 tbsp Basil (fresh, chopped)
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

3. 3

   Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes, then season with salt and black pepper.

4. 4

   Add the spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add the drained pasta and toss, loosening with reserved pasta water as needed until creamy and evenly coated.

5. 5

   Turn off the heat and stir in Parmesan and basil. Serve immediately.