If you are searching for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors yet remains incredibly comforting, the Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe wonderfully blends the earthy freshness of spinach with the tangy richness of sun-dried tomatoes, all embraced by a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. It’s a fuss-free meal that feels indulgent but comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends. Prepare to fall in love with how effortlessly these simple ingredients transform into a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and flavorful—these ingredients work in perfect harmony to create that irresistible taste and texture. Each component brings something unique to the table, whether it’s for color, creaminess, or that subtle hint of garlic aroma.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The classic pasta base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and a tender, slightly earthy bite.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Brings intense, tangy sweetness that elevates the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich and silky texture that makes this dish so satisfying.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic backbone.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: The perfect cooking fat to sauté the garlic and wilt the spinach gently.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
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 according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds a slight firmness, which creates a lovely chewiness that balances the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside—this gives you time to prepare the sauce without overcooking the noodles.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic. Cook it gently until it turns fragrant and golden, which usually takes about a minute. This step releases the garlic’s natural sweetness and builds the robust base for the sauce.
Step 3: Wilt Spinach and Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Next, add the fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them together, allowing the spinach to wilt down and the sun-dried tomatoes to warm up and release their flavor. This combination forms the vibrant, flavorful heart of the sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Parmesan
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. Cook this mixture until the sauce thickens slightly and is heated through, creating that dreamy, velvety texture that coats every strand of spaghetti with pure indulgence.
Step 5: Toss Spaghetti with the Sauce
Add your cooked spaghetti straight into the skillet and toss everything together to ensure every bite is loaded with the creamy sun-dried tomato goodness. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this final seasoning makes all the flavors shine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once combined, plate the pasta immediately while it’s warm and inviting. This dish tastes best fresh but the leftovers are wonderful too if you plan to save some for later.
How to Serve Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. A light shave of extra Parmesan adds a salty crunch and complements the creaminess, while a few flakes of crushed red pepper introduce a subtle heat that awakens the palate.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the spaghetti. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a perfect match, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner setup, swirl the pasta into nests on plates and top each with a little extra spinach leaf and sun-dried tomato pieces. You can also serve it family-style in a large serving bowl, garnished generously with herbs, inviting everyone to dig in and share the love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer leftover spaghetti with sun-dried tomato cream sauce into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a reliable option for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, but keep in mind that the texture of cream sauces can change slightly after thawing. If you plan to freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat the spaghetti gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help revive the sauce’s creamy consistency, ensuring that your leftovers taste just as delicious as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use dried spinach if I don’t have fresh?
While fresh spinach is ideal for its texture and flavor, frozen spinach can be substituted in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the sauce to avoid a watery consistency.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream?
Yes! You can swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. These alternatives still provide richness and body, though the flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious.
How can I make this dish more protein-rich?
Adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu cubes will boost the protein content wonderfully. Simply cook your protein of choice separately and mix it in during the final step.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly, feel free to experiment with fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. The creamy sauce clings well to most pasta shapes.
What wine pairs well with this recipe?
A crisp, chilled Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce wonderfully without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is like bringing a little Italian sunshine into your kitchen. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and comforting beyond words. Whether you’re whipping it up after a busy day or impressing friends with your culinary skills, this dish is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite. So grab those ingredients and enjoy every creamy, tangy, spinach-filled bite!
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Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A quick and delicious Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce recipe that combines tender pasta with nutritious spinach and rich sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Oils
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil water in a large pot and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook spinach and sun-dried tomatoes: Add the fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté until the spinach wilts, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Make the cream sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta hot and enjoy this flavorful and creamy spaghetti dish immediately.
Notes
- Use good quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra richness.
- To make the dish lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor more than pre-grated cheese.
- If spinach is not available, baby kale or Swiss chard can be good substitutes.
