Tomato Spinach Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 ounces of penne

→ Sauce Base

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
03 - 2 minced garlic cloves
04 - A tablespoon of olive oil
05 - 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes
06 - Two spoons of tomato paste

→ Seasonings

07 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves
08 - A pinch of crushed red pepper (optional)
09 - 1/2 tsp dried basil
10 - A sprinkle of salt (1/2 tsp)
11 - Fresh ground black pepper as preferred

→ Creamy Elements

12 - 2 oz soft cream cheese
13 - 1/4 cup of Parmesan, finely grated

→ Vegetables

14 - 4 oz fresh spinach leaves

# Instructions:

01 - Get a big pot of water boiling and cook the pasta until it's ready in about 7-10 minutes. Pour into a strainer to drain.
02 - Cook up the garlic and onion in some olive oil over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they soften in 3-5 minutes.
03 - Add the diced tomatoes, seasonings, tomato paste, and a splash of water (1/2 cup). Stir it all together well.
04 - Lower the heat and toss in cream cheese chunks. Stir until melted, then mix in the Parmesan until smooth.
05 - Mix the spinach into the pan and let it cook just until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
06 - Combine the pasta with the sauce. Adjust flavors if needed before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Full meal cost: $3.28 / Portion: $0.82
02 - Quick, fresh, and better than pre-packed meals