One Pot Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

When dinner time rolls around and the clock is ticking, the last thing anyone wants is a complicated recipe with a mountain of dishes to wash. This one pot pasta with spinach and tomatoes changes the game. It cooks in just ten minutes, delivers rich, fresh flavors, and keeps cleanup to a minimum. Imagine cherry tomatoes bursting into a silky sauce, fresh spinach melting into the mix, and a bright lemon finish with a spicy chili crunch drizzle that takes every bite to the next level. This is pasta night made simple, fast, and delicious.

One pot pasta with spinach and tomatoes ready to serve

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe serves four and uses ingredients you likely have on hand or can easily find at the store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine works best)

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups fresh spinach

• 4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)

• Juice of ½ lemon (reserve the zest)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Chili crunch for drizzling (adds a spicy, crunchy finish)

• Parmesan or dairy-free cheese (optional)

  
  

These simple ingredients come together in one pot, making the process straightforward and quick.

How to Make One Pot Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You add everything to one pot, cook, and serve. Here’s the step-by-step:

1. Combine all ingredients in one pot

   Add the pasta, cherry tomatoes, sliced onion, minced garlic, fresh spinach, broth, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

   
   

2. Cook the pasta

   Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the tomatoes have softened into a sauce.

   
   

3. Add lemon zest

   Stir in the reserved lemon zest for a fresh, zesty aroma and flavor boost.

   
   

4. Serve and garnish

   Dish out the pasta and finish with a drizzle of chili crunch and a sprinkle of Parmesan or your favorite dairy-free cheese.

   
   

This method saves time and dishes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights

• Fast cooking time: The entire meal comes together in about ten minutes, perfect when you’re short on time.

• Minimal cleanup: Using one pot means fewer dishes and less stress after dinner.

• Balanced flavors: The sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the earthiness of spinach, and the brightness of lemon create a well-rounded taste.

• Customizable heat: Red pepper flakes and chili crunch add just the right amount of spice, which you can adjust to your preference.

• Nutritious and filling: Spinach adds vitamins and minerals, while pasta provides satisfying carbs.

  
  

Tips for Perfect One Pot Pasta Every Time

• Choose the right pasta: Thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine cooks evenly and quickly in this method.

• Use fresh broth: Good quality broth enhances the flavor of the sauce.

• Don’t skip the lemon zest: It adds a fresh, vibrant note that lifts the whole dish.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go to get the salt, pepper, and spice levels just right.

• Add protein if you want: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans can be stirred in for a heartier meal.

  
  

Variations to Try

• Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different green.

• Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes for a deeper flavor.

• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.

• Stir in cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.

• Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

  
  

This recipe is flexible and easy to adapt to what you have or what you’re craving.

Final Thoughts on One Pot Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes