Angel Hair Pasta With Spinach And Tomatoes

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Spinach And Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces angel hair pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Shortcuts

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes. This dish comes together in minutes and is so fresh and flavorful! The light, buttery sauce perfectly complements the delicate pasta, while the vibrant spinach and juicy tomatoes add a burst of color and taste. Whenever I'm short on time but want a satisfying meal, this is my go-to recipe. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies without feeling like I'm sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:53:36.345Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of sautéed garlic and ripe tomatoes creates a heavenly aroma that filled my kitchen. I remember thinking that this simple method allowed all the ingredients to shine. One tip I discovered is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water; it helps to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the angel hair.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap in seasonal vegetables or even add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. The freshness of the spinach combined with the tartness of the tomatoes creates a delightful balance. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that I love sharing with family and friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Fresh vegetables add vibrant colors and nutrients
Light and flavorful dish that satisfies without being heavy

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The freshness of the spinach and tomatoes is key to elevating this Angel Hair Pasta dish. When selecting spinach, look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting or browning. Cherry tomatoes should be firm and plump; I prefer using a mix of red and yellow varieties for an extra pop of color. The quality of your olive oil matters too—choose extra virgin for the best flavor, as it will enrich the sauce and add a fruity note that pairs beautifully with the vegetables.

Parmesan cheese is the classic finishing touch here, but feel free to experiment! If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. For a bolder taste, try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese instead. Each of these will add creaminess and a tang that complements the light yet buttery pasta.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the angel hair pasta, be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This pasta, due to its thinness, cooks very quickly—usually about 4-6 minutes. To achieve a perfect al dente texture, start tasting a minute before the package time is up. This way, you prevent overcooking, which can make the pasta mushy and less appealing. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked since it will continue to cook when added to the skillet.

As you sauté the garlic and tomatoes, be careful not to burn the garlic; it should become fragrant without turning dark brown, which can impart a bitter flavor. If the tomatoes aren’t breaking down as you’d like, consider adding a splash of white wine or vegetable broth to aid in the cooking process. This will also add further depth to your sauce. Cooking until the tomatoes just begin to burst will give you that juicy bite that contrasts nicely with the angel hair.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful dish!

Ingredients

8 ounces angel hair pasta
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Enjoy these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pasta dish!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.

Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If the mixture is too dry, add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Divide the pasta among plates and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your delicious pasta creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can also use other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, depending on your preference.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or pasta water to prevent sticking. This ensures the dish remains moist and flavorful. Avoid using the microwave, as it can lead to uneven heating and a gummy texture in the pasta.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. However, I recommend freezing only the pasta without the spinach, as it tends to become soggy once frozen and thawed. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add freshly sautéed spinach upon reheating.

Variations to Try

To switch things up, consider adding protein to the dish. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can transform the pasta into a heartier meal. If you opt for shrimp, sauté them in the skillet until they turn pink and opaque before adding the tomatoes. This will infuse the dish with extra flavor and make it a more filling option for dinner.

For an extra burst of flavor, think about incorporating herbs. Fresh basil or parsley adds a garden-fresh taste that brightens the dish. Mix in chopped herbs right before serving, or use them as a garnish. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant heat, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes! Whole wheat pasta can be a great alternative and will add more fiber to the dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers for variety and added nutrition.