Roasted Garlic Spaghetti with Tomatoes and Spinach

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a garlic lover’s dream. Roasting the garlic transforms its sharpness into a sweet, nutty flavor that infuses the pasta sauce. The addition of cherry tomatoes adds a burst of juiciness, while the spinach provides a fresh, earthy contrast. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 heads of garlic

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting garlic)

• ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt

• 175g (6oz) spaghetti

• 150g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved

• 100g (2 packed cups) baby spinach leaves

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt for boiling the pasta

• Parmesan cheese, to garnish

Directions

1. Roast the Garlic: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Cut the top off each head of garlic and place them on separate squares of tin foil. Drizzle each with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Wrap them in the foil and roast for 40 minutes. Allow to cool until manageable, then squeeze out the softened garlic cloves and mash them.

2. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining.

3. Sauté the Tomatoes: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2 minutes until they begin to sear.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the mashed roasted garlic to the pan with the tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add the cooked spaghetti, baby spinach, and balsamic vinegar. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a desired sauce consistency.

5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes (mostly hands-off during garlic roasting)

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for added protein.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the tomatoes for a spicy twist.

• Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like basil or thyme for additional flavor layers.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can cause the pasta to become mushy. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How does roasting garlic change its flavor?

Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness, transforming it into a sweet, nutty flavor that’s less pungent and more complex.

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of roasting whole heads?

While you can use pre-minced garlic, roasting whole garlic cloves provides a richer, sweeter flavor that enhances the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based alternative, this dish can be made vegan-friendly.

Can I prepare the roasted garlic in advance?

Absolutely! Roasted garlic can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making meal prep easier.

What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can include vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to add more texture and flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the tomatoes to introduce some heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like linguine, penne, or fusilli.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta alternative.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze this pasta, as the texture may change upon reheating.

What can I serve this pasta with?

Pair it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Roasted Garlic Spaghetti with Tomatoes and Spinach is a delightful dish that combines the sweet, mellow flavors of roasted garlic with the freshness of tomatoes and spinach. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a garlic enthusiast or just looking for a comforting vegetarian option, this recipe is sure to satisfy.