Description

This protein-packed sun-dried tomato and spinach pasta is a creamy, satisfying dish loaded with flavor, vibrant veggies, and your choice of hearty protein. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner—quick, healthy, and comforting!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta

12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
4 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or dairy milk)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Protein Options (choose one)

1 lb grilled chicken breast, sliced
1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
1 block extra firm tofu, cubed and sautéed

Optional Garnish

Fresh basil
Crushed red pepper flakes
Extra grated cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Create the Sauce
Pour in the milk and bring to a light simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens, around 3–4 minutes.
Add Your Protein
Mix in grilled chicken, beans, or tofu. Cook for a few minutes until heated through.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until fully coated and seasoned. Serve hot with optional garnishes.

Notes

You can prep the protein ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese to suit dietary preferences. For a richer sauce, substitute half the milk with cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course, Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 520
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Protein Packed Pasta, Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, Spinach Pasta, Creamy Pasta with Chicken, Vegetarian Protein Pasta