Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delightful and indulgent pasta dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the bold, tangy flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s the perfect balance of comforting and savory, with the addition of spinach providing a burst of freshness and nutrition. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends, this recipe will surely impress.

Why This Recipe Is Appealing

This dish is a wonderful blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a deep, umami-packed taste that pairs perfectly with the smooth cream sauce. Adding spinach gives the dish a healthy boost, while the spaghetti serves as a familiar, comforting base. The ease of preparation combined with its rich flavors makes this recipe an appealing choice for both novice and seasoned cooks.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil or dry-packed, depending on preference)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown.
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their flavors into the oil.
4. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the sun-dried tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat, and let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Incorporate the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if necessary to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
7. Season: Taste the dish and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to your liking.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

Possible Variations

• Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even bacon for extra protein.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice.
• Extra Veggies: Add other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a more hearty dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a milder flavor, or use fresh tomatoes for a lighter, fresher taste.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, use coconut cream or any plant-based cream in place of heavy cream, and choose a dairy-free Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast to make it dairy-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before tossing with fresh pasta.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap spaghetti for penne, fettuccine, or any other pasta shape you prefer.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sausage can complement the creamy sauce and make the dish more filling.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While pasta dishes with cream sauces don’t always freeze well due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the sauce (separate from the pasta) for up to 1 month and reheat it when needed.

What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?

You can use either oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes or dry-packed ones. If using dry-packed, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.

How do I make this recipe less rich?

To reduce the richness, use half-and-half or milk in place of the heavy cream, and cut back on the amount of cheese.

Conclusion

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a decadent yet simple pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor. The creamy sauce, combined with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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