Delicious Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: creamy, indulgent pasta and a burst of vibrant, fresh spinach. The sun-dried tomatoes add a unique, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be customized for your tastes. The creamy sauce with a hint of garlic and Parmesan ties everything together beautifully, making this pasta an irresistible option for any meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.

5. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, stir in some fresh basil for added flavor.

7. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.

8. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

• Different Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.

• Sun-Dried Tomato Paste: If you can't find chopped sun-dried tomatoes, you can use sun-dried tomato paste for a more concentrated flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, such as coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used in place of fresh spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain the spinach before adding it to the sauce.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

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

How do I store sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If packed in oil, ensure the tomatoes are covered with oil to preserve their freshness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream option, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, jarred sun-dried tomatoes can be used in place of dried ones. Just drain them well before using.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta.

Can I freeze leftovers?

This recipe may not freeze as well due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed. It’s best to enjoy the dish fresh or store it in the fridge for a few days.

Conclusion

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the richness of cream with the vibrant flavors of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and offers plenty of room for customization. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your pasta rotation.