Easy Vegan Pasta Dinner: Creamy Tomato & Spinach Penne

This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a go-to vegan dinner when you want something quick, hearty, and satisfying. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

🥦 Why You’ll Love This Vegan Pasta

• Dairy-free yet creamy and rich
• Packed with fiber and iron from spinach
• Perfect weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes
• Family-friendly and customizable with extra veggies

🛒 Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup coconut milk (or cashew cream for creaminess)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (loosely packed)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh basil for garnish

👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Base

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors blend.

Step 3: Add Creaminess & Spinach

1. Stir in coconut milk (or cashew cream) to make the sauce creamy.
2. Add spinach and cook until just wilted (2–3 minutes).
3. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

1. Toss cooked pasta into the skillet with sauce.
2. Mix until pasta is well coated and heated through.
3. Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.

🌱 Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.
• Pair with garlic bread or a side salad.
• Add roasted mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more variety.

✅ Final Thoughts on This Vegan Pasta Recipe

Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—this vegan pasta dinner is proof you don’t need dairy to enjoy a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving a bowl of comfort.