If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant and comforting dish with layers of flavor, look no further than this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe. It combines the tender bite of perfectly cooked spaghetti with a luscious, creamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomato’s rich tang and fresh spinach’s bright earthiness. Every forkful offers a wonderful balance of indulgence and freshness, making it a go-to recipe that’s both simple and impressive enough to share with friends or savor as a cozy weeknight treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe really shines through its straightforward ingredients. Each item plays a vital role in building the creamy, flavorful sauce and the tasty pasta base, ensuring you get that perfect texture and vibrant taste in each bite.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The heart of the dish, offering a satisfying bite that holds the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings a fruity richness and helps gently cook the garlic and tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a warm, aromatic depth that elevates every mouthful.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and chopped): The star ingredient delivering a tangy sweetness with a chewy texture.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped): Infuses bright color and a light, fresh balance to the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety base that ties the flavors together seamlessly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty kick to enrich the sauce’s complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to season the dish perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spiciness that complements the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a touch of heat to brighten the sauce.
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water: A clever trick to loosen and bind your sauce for a silky finish.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a final pop of color and fresh herbal aroma.
How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning tender but with a slight bite. Don’t forget to save 1/4 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining, as it’s your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook until fragrant, about a minute—this brings out its sweet, aromatic qualities without any bitterness. Then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let those sizzle for another minute or two, coaxing out their deep, tangy flavor.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Now, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and if you like a hint of spice, your crushed red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes so it thickens just enough to coat your spaghetti with a rich, silky texture.
Step 4: Add the Spinach and Combine
Fold in the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt lightly, which happens quickly—about 1–2 minutes. Then add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together so each strand is enveloped in the creamy, flavorful sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up, making it perfectly glossy and smooth.
How to Serve Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting presentation and an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over your pasta right before serving. A little extra grated Parmesan on top adds a lovely salty, savory finish that your taste buds will adore.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that heavenly sauce. You can also add a simple tomato and mozzarella salad for a complete Italian-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this pasta in individual bowls topped with a sprig of fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can also toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to transform this recipe into a heartier main course that caters to different tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making it a perfect next-day meal when you want something comforting and quick.
Freezing
Because of the cream base, freezing isn’t ideal for this pasta—heavy cream can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated. For the best texture and freshness, it’s better to enjoy leftovers within a few days of making the dish.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce’s creamy texture and toss carefully until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of ones in oil?
Yes, you can! Just soak dried sun-dried tomatoes in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them before chopping and adding to the dish. Keep in mind the flavor might be slightly less rich than using the ones packed in oil.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms are fantastic additions. They add heartiness and make it a more filling meal without detracting from the original flavors.
What pasta could I use if I don’t have spaghetti?
Any long pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or even penne will work wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the best texture.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper flakes option?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth to the sauce, but you can adjust the amount to your spice tolerance or leave it out if you prefer no heat at all.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is a kitchen win that feels both luxurious and effortlessly quick. It’s a beautiful way to add something special to your dinner rotation without fuss. Trust me, once you try this creamy, tangy, and spinach-packed pasta, it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes to brighten busy nights or impress guests with minimal effort. Give it a whirl and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a luscious and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish. Featuring tender spaghetti enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with savory sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, this vegetarian main course is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Veggies & Garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set both aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Make Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Spinach: Incorporate the roughly chopped spinach into the sauce and cook until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting the sauce consistency.
- Crushed red pepper flakes add a nice subtle heat but are optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
