This Creamy Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti is an elegant, yet easy-to-make pasta dish that combines the earthy richness of fresh spinach with the vibrant, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. The heavy cream and Parmesan create a silky, luscious sauce that clings to each strand of spaghetti, delivering a delicious bite every time. This recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the slight heat from red pepper flakes (if desired) adding just the right kick. Ideal for busy weeknights or dinner parties, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (use oil from the sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor if available)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If using oil from the sun-dried tomato jar, substitute for a richer flavor.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it will become bitter.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, if using, to the skillet. Sauté for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Spinach and Cream

1. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts, about 1–2 minutes.
2. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, until the cream begins to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese

1. Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that the Parmesan is already salty, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

Step 5: Combine with Spaghetti

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until well coated.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Divide the creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato spaghetti among plates.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 520
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 13g
Sodium: 380mg
Fiber: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg

These values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti works well with creamy sauces, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne would work beautifully in this dish.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! For a vegan alternative, use plant-based cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
A: You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Coconut cream can also be a good substitute if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.

Q: How can I add protein to this meal?
A: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are excellent protein additions to this dish, adding both flavor and heartiness.

Q: What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
A: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use roasted red peppers for a similar sweetness and texture. Fresh cherry tomatoes can also work but will give a different taste.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality Parmesan make a noticeable difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Sauté the garlic only until fragrant, as burned garlic can overpower the dish.
3. Control the Creaminess: Adjust the sauce thickness by adding a bit of pasta water, which also helps the sauce adhere to the pasta.
4. Enhance Flavor with Sun-Dried Tomato Oil: Using the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar adds an extra layer of richness to the sauce.
5. Garnish for Freshness: Adding fresh basil or parsley at the end gives a bright flavor that balances the creaminess.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
2. Freezing: Cream-based sauces generally don’t freeze well, as they can separate when thawed. However, if you do freeze it, reheat gently on the stove while stirring constantly.
3. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, reheat the sauce, and combine.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti is an ideal recipe for any pasta lover looking for a quick yet indulgent meal. With its creamy sauce, the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh earthiness of spinach, this dish perfectly balances richness with a touch of brightness from the basil garnish. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this pasta dish is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Its flexibility in ingredients allows you to easily adapt it to different dietary needs or flavor preferences. Add in grilled chicken, top with some extra Parmesan, or even toss in a few cherry tomatoes for a unique twist. With easy preparation and versatile serving options, this creamy spaghetti is a foolproof recipe that’s bound to become a go-to comfort meal in your kitchen!