Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a quick, delicious pasta recipe featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with fresh spinach and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it balances vibrant flavors with a luscious sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Dairy and Oils
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, approximately 1 minute, taking care not to burn it.
- Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Cook together until the spinach wilts, about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the vegetables and reduce the heat to low. Stir continuously to blend the cream with the spinach and tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season the Sauce: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, coating the ingredients nicely.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss carefully to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sun-dried tomato and spinach sauce.
- Serve: Allow the dish to sit for about a minute off heat to let the flavors integrate fully. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves to enhance aroma and presentation.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy this delicious, creamy pasta with your family or friends for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic; burnt garlic will impart a bitter flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the cream a little longer before adding the cheese.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add more richness; adjust olive oil accordingly.
- Add red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- Leftover pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or water.
Keywords: spaghetti recipe, spinach pasta, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, easy pasta dinner, vegetarian pasta dish
