Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
A creamy, rich pasta dish balanced with the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of spinach. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed for richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (set aside after cooking the pasta)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sauce Base
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
- Infuse Flavor
- Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, allowing the tomatoes to release their tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
- Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Incorporate the Cheese
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Add the Spinach
- Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted and evenly distributed in the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding more pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time.
- Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy dish with:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Warm, crusty garlic bread for a perfect accompaniment.
Pro Tips
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor; if using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water for about 15 minutes before chopping.
- Save some extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a finishing touch that elevates the presentation.
This recipe is a delicious combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!