Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
A delightful dish blending tender spaghetti with a creamy sauce accented by sweet sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz Spaghetti Tender pasta strands that absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, chopped Provides concentrated sweetness and umami flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a rich, luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds a nutty, salty element and helps thicken the sauce.
- 4 cups Fresh Spinach Adds color, texture, and a fresh, vibrant taste.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds mild heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes, optional Adds a subtle kick if desired.
- 1/4 cup Pasta Water To adjust sauce consistency and help coat pasta evenly.
Instructions
Cooking
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the spaghetti.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Toss in fresh spinach and cooked spaghetti, stirring until the spinach wilts and pasta is evenly coated with sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Plate immediately, garnish with extra Parmesan if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in place of olive oil. Make this dish vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less pasta water as needed. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition. If you enjoy spice, consider doubling the red pepper flakes or adding a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.