Ingredients
1 lb short pasta (such as gemelli or penne)
2 large ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 package baby spinach, about 6oz
12 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-size pieces
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 cup prepared pesto (like this one by Classico)
2 tbs olive oil
Kosher salt and pepper
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking put the spinach in the bottom of a large bowl.
- When the pasta is finished, drain and return to pan.
- Add the olive oil, pesto and garlic and quickly stir until the pasta is coated.
- While the pasta is still very hot, pour it over the spinach
- Let stand for about two minutes so the pasta has time to wilt the spinach.
- Stir in the mozzarella and tomato.
Hints:
- It's a good idea to let your tomato, mozzarella and spinach come to room temp before making this dish or the end result will be lukewarm.
yum!
ReplyDeleteI'm so flattered Amy! The only other thing I add is a random array of seasonings (basil, oregano, a little cayenne pepper). I also add some pieces of rotisserie chicken sometimes when Chris is too hungry for a "no meat meal" :-) VERY easy!
ReplyDeleteAmy, forgive my ignorance, but I am no chef; just like easy meals and this sounds wonderful. Question - "prepared pesto" is that something I prepare or can you buy already prepared? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSorry Terry, I just assume that everyone knows all my cooking shortcuts. I added a link for a great prepared pesto by Classico. You can find it next to the pasta sauce in the grocery store.
ReplyDeleteYou can also buy prepared, refrigerated basil pesto (a little more expensive, but I think it tastes better than the jarred). It's near the refrigerated pasta in most stores.
ReplyDeleteMy husband flipped for this dish he took some over to his friend who then stopped eating what was already on his plate and switched to this for dinner :) I will be including this on my weekly menu until everyone needs a break from it. It is sooo easy to make, has fresh ingredients and is really inexpensive for the quality.
ReplyDelete