Creamy Lemon Pasta with Spinach & Tomatoes

 Ingredients:

1-1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream ( I used half and half)
1 lemon, zested and juice reserved
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 pound rotini pasta
3 ounces fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to box directions.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat; add the garlic and cook for a minute. Add the cream, the lemon zest and juice, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, until it starts to thicken, stirring frequently.

Drain the pasta and place it back into the pot. Add the cream mixture and cook it over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, until most of the sauce has been absorbed in the pasta.

Take the pot off heat and add the spinach, Parmesan, and tomatoes. Toss well until the spinach has wilted. Season to taste, and serve hot.  (Would be great with diced chicken added as well!)