Introduction
Are you looking for a tasty and easy pasta recipe that feels special but doesn’t take too long to make? Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a perfect choice! This dish is creamy, flavorful, and packed with fresh spinach and the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal that is also healthy.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress your family and friends. Plus, it uses easy ingredients that you can find in most kitchens or grocery stores. Ready to make a wonderful dinner? Let’s get started!
Ingredients – Spaghetti & Spinach
Before we cook, here is the list of ingredients you will need:
- 8 ounces (about 225 grams) of spaghetti
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (washed and chopped)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream or cooking cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar or plain olive oil)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, if you like a little spice)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step by Step Process – Spaghetti & Spinach
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al dente (which means it’s cooked but still firm).
When done, drain the spaghetti but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. We’ll use it later to make the sauce smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil on medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it smells fragrant but not brown. Then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes to release their flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cream
Pour in the heavy cream slowly while stirring. Let the cream warm up but don’t let it boil hard. Stir occasionally for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken a bit.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts and blends into the sauce. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking.
Step 5: Add Spinach
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the sauce. Stir it well so the spinach wilts down and mixes with the creamy sauce. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Spaghetti and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently to make sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy tomato sauce. Heat for 1-2 minutes so the flavors mix together nicely.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Turn off the heat and transfer the pasta to serving plates or a big bowl. You can add some fresh basil leaves on top for color and extra flavor. If you like, sprinkle a little more Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 15 grams |
| Total Fat | 20 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 50 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use whole wheat spaghetti for this recipe?
Yes! Whole wheat spaghetti works great and adds more fiber to your meal, making it even healthier.
Q2: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option. Just remember the sauce may be less rich.
Q3: Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
They add a unique tangy and sweet flavor that makes this dish special. If you don’t have them, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes, but the taste will be different.
Q4: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, and make sure your pasta contains no eggs.
Q5: How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed.
Final Thoughts
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a wonderful meal that combines creamy richness with fresh, healthy ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting dish with a twist.
The recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require fancy ingredients, making it a great choice for cooks of all levels. Plus, it’s flexible—feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap ingredients based on what you have.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious mix of creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with tender spinach and spaghetti. It might just become your new favorite pasta dish!
