Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe

Name: Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti or penne; Salt for boiling water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover how to whip up a delicious and satisfying pasta dinner in no time with this easy recipe.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:07:08.790Z

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner is perfect for those busy nights when you want something quick yet delicious. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that the whole family will love!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins
Deliciously comforting and satisfying

      

The Versatility of Pasta

Pasta is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, making it a favorite among home cooks. You can easily tailor this easy weeknight pasta dinner recipe to suit your mood or the contents of your pantry. Whether you prefer spaghetti, penne, or any other shape, this recipe is adaptable, allowing you to switch up the pasta type and still achieve a mouthwatering meal.

Moreover, pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces and ingredients. This recipe's tomato-based sauce is just the beginning. Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that every weeknight dinner can be a unique experience.

Healthy Additions

Incorporating fresh spinach into this pasta dish not only adds a vibrant color but also boosts its nutritional profile. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium, making it a fantastic addition to your meal. You can also consider adding other leafy greens like kale or arugula for added health benefits.

Additionally, if you're looking to increase the protein content of your dinner, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These options not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish more filling and satisfying, transforming it into a complete meal that everyone will love.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your pasta turns out perfectly every time, remember to use plenty of salted water for boiling. This not only flavors the pasta but also helps it cook evenly. It's recommended to taste the pasta a minute or two before the package's suggested cooking time to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

When it comes to sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it. Garlic can easily burn, which would impart a bitter taste to your sauce. Sauté just until fragrant, and then move on to adding the tomatoes and seasonings. This simple tip will elevate the overall flavor of your dish, making it truly delicious.

Ingredients

Pasta

8 ounces spaghetti or penne
Salt for boiling water

Sauce and Add-ins

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this dish your own!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add the diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Spinach

Add the cooked pasta and fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your easy weeknight pasta dinner!

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to add any leftover vegetables or proteins you have on hand!

Serving Suggestions

This easy weeknight pasta dinner is perfect on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully, adding freshness and crunch that balances the richness of the pasta.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes over the finished dish or serving it with a side of chili oil. This addition can take your pasta to the next level, offering a delightful kick that spice lovers will appreciate.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating pasta can sometimes lead to a dry meal, so consider adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil before microwaving to restore moisture.

For a quick lunch option, this pasta can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad. Just toss in some extra veggies and a light dressing, and you'll have a refreshing meal ready to go. It's a great way to repurpose your dinner leftovers into a new dish!

Meal Prep Made Easy

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch of pasta and sauce at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick dinners. Just store the components separately to maintain freshness and texture, then combine them when you're ready to eat.

By preparing different sauces or add-ins each week, you can enjoy a variety of flavors without much extra effort. This strategy not only saves time but also helps you stick to a balanced diet, ensuring you have healthy meals ready to go even on the busiest days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, feel free to use gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make great additions.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preference.