What is Pasta Fresca?
If you’re looking for a low effort, punched with flavor weeknight recipe that the entire family will like – this one is for you. Similar to our tortellini soup recipe, this pasta-based Pasta Fresca Noodles & Co copycat recipe is sure to please.
This dish combines the crunch of seared pasta with the freshness of tomatoes, onions, and spinach, all brought together with a tangy Fresca sauce. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in or to impress guests at your next gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta Mixture
- 3 cups cooked penne pasta (or bow tie)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup minced garlic
- 4 roma tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ounces baby spinach
- Feta or shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Fresca Sauce
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Preparing Your Pasta Fresca
Cook Pasta According to the Package
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Get Ready to Add Some Heat
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and let it sear on the edges.
Once the pasta has crisped up, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Drop in the Vegetables
Add the sliced roma tomatoes and red onion to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until slightly wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the Fresca Sauce
While the pasta mixture is cooking, make the Fresca sauce by whisking together the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and kosher salt.
Combine Ingredients
Add the baby spinach to the pan and sauté until slightly wilted, or to your preference.
Lastly, add half of the Fresca sauce mixture to the pan and mix it with the pasta mixture. Add more sauce if desired after everything is well mixed.
Top with Feta or Parmesan
Serve the dish warm, topped with Feta or shredded Parmesan cheese.
This Pasta Fresca recipe is a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding parmesan chicken, Italian sausage, seared shrimp, or your favorite protein for an extra twist. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Pasta Fresca - A Noodles & Co. Knock Off
This Noodles & Company knock off Pasta Fresca recipe is a sure to please easy weeknight addition to your meal plan.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked penne pasta (or bow tie)
- 2 tsp + 1/2 cup olive oil
- ¼ cup minced garlic
- 4 roma tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4 oz baby spinach
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- Feta or shredded parmesean cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and let it sear on the edges.
- Once the pasta has crisped up, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add the sliced roma tomatoes and red onion to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until slightly wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While the pasta mixture is cooking, make the Fresca sauce by whisking together the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and kosher salt.
- Add the baby spinach to the pan and sauté until slightly wilted, or to your preference.
- Lastly, add half of the Fresca sauce mixture to the pan and mix it with the pasta mixture. Add more sauce if desired after everything is well mixed.
- Serve the dish warm, topped with Feta or shredded Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You will likely have extra fresca sauce. Start pouring slowly and add more to your liking. It is best not overdressed.
- Tomatoes & onions are best when cut in a chunky fashion.
- You can substitute white wine or apple cider for the apple cider vinegar.
- I prefer more tomatoes in my dish, so sometimes will add up to 6 roma tomatoes for more flavor.
- It is also great served with Parmesan chicken or spicy italian sausage for a protein addition.
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