Description
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a simple yet indulgent pasta dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with fresh spinach and garlic, finished with Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special meal shared with loved ones.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
- Season the Sauce: Add grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Let the dish sit for a minute to allow flavors to meld. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy your wonderful meal with family or friends!
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast respectively.
- You can add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, drain them well before chopping to avoid a watery sauce.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preferences or omit for a milder dish.
- Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
