Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’re halfway to a meal that will fill your kitchen with the aroma of garlic and butter, a combination that never fails to bring the family to the table.
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine work best)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t fret. Substitutions are part of the fun—swap out spinach for kale or use whole wheat pasta if that’s what you have on hand.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting dish to life. I promise it’s as easy as pie—or should I say, as easy as boiling pasta?
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Toss in the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
From my kitchen to yours, don’t worry about a little mess—those are signs of a meal made with love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Garlic Butter Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach, recipe, cooking, food
