SPAGHETTI & SPINACH WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATO CREAM SAUCE
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a flavorful and creamy pasta dish that combines tender spaghetti, fresh spinach, and a rich sun-dried tomato sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a touch of gourmet flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups fresh spinach washed and chopped
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, until wilted.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
- If you prefer more vegetables, add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- To make the dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.