If you’re a fan of pasta dishes with rich, creamy sauces and bold flavors, Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce will become your new favorite recipe. This dish combines tender spaghetti, fresh spinach, and a luscious cream sauce infused with the tangy, sweet punch of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but sneaks in plenty of nutrients from the spinach, making it a great choice for a balanced dinner.
Perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining, this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the spaghetti, while the sun-dried tomatoes add bursts of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a gourmet-inspired meal, this recipe delivers satisfaction without the hassle.
2. Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 300g spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil, drained)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
3. Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
4. How to Prepare
- Start by boiling the spaghetti while prepping the ingredients for efficiency.
- Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to build a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Incorporate fresh spinach for added nutrition and a vibrant color contrast.
- Finish by tossing the cooked spaghetti in the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is coated for maximum flavor.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 portions.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes, fettuccine, linguine, or penne are great substitutes for spaghetti.
Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
Q4: Can I add protein to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu pair beautifully with the flavors.
Q5: Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
A: They’re a key flavor component, but you can use roasted cherry tomatoes as an alternative.
8. Conclusion
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The creamy sauce, with its tangy sun-dried tomato undertones, perfectly complements the tender pasta and fresh spinach. This dish is quick enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your pasta game or sneak in more greens in a delicious way, this recipe is a winner. Try it out tonight and enjoy the perfect harmony of creaminess, zestiness, and freshness in every bite. It’s comfort food redefined!