Description
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a flavorful and creamy Italian-inspired vegetarian main course. Featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a rich sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, it is elevated with fresh spinach and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, this comforting pasta dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to release their flavor.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
- Wilt Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, incorporating it evenly into the sauce.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. Use the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
