If you’re looking for a pasta dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, the Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender spaghetti with vibrant, wilted spinach and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s rich, tangy, and comforting all at once. Whether you’re craving something easy for weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe checks all the boxes with its perfect balance of flavors and effortless preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze for this recipe, yet each plays a crucial role in creating that memorable taste and texture. From the bright green spinach adding freshness to the creamy Parmesan-enriched sauce, every element complements the dish beautifully.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The classic pasta base that soaks up the luscious sauce perfectly.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color, nutrients, and a slight earthiness that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Brings a zesty, sweet-tart flavor that’s essential for this recipe’s signature taste.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich and silky sauce that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that amplifies the sauce’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warmth and an aromatic base.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and spinach, offering smoothness and slight fruitiness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To season and bring out the best in all ingredients.
How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by boiling your spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Properly cooked pasta forms the perfect foundation, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. Drain and set aside while we prepare the flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. This step releases that mouthwatering aroma that draws you into the kitchen before you even taste the final dish.
Step 3: Wilt Spinach and Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Next, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir gently until it begins to wilt. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to meld their sweet and tangy notes with the greens. This combination immediately brightens the dish and makes the sauce irresistibly vibrant.
Step 4: Stir in Heavy Cream and Parmesan
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to allow the cheese to melt fully and the cream to thicken slightly into a smooth sauce. This luxurious step infuses the dish with richness that perfectly balances the acidity of the sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with the Sauce
Return the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together so that every strand is coated in that gorgeous sun-dried tomato cream sauce. Season carefully with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting until you have just the right harmony.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe piping hot to enjoy it at its freshest. Each bite is a comforting hug wrapped in creamy texture and vibrant flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
How to Serve Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your dish with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, or even some toasted pine nuts takes this pasta to the next level. Fresh basil or parsley leaves add a pop of green and a fragrant finish that brightens each forkful.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some warm garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini would add an earthy complement without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, consider serving this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe in individual shallow bowls garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. You can also layer it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein and a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream sauce may thicken in the fridge, but a gentle stir and slight reheating will bring it back to creamy perfection.
Freezing
This dish isn’t ideal for freezing since the cream sauce can separate, altering texture and flavor. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerate and consume within a few days to maintain that delightful creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the texture uneven. Stir frequently until warmed through but still luscious.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to substitute with fettuccine, penne, or even linguine to suit your preference. Each shape will hold the sauce slightly differently, offering a fresh experience every time.
Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
Sun-dried tomatoes provide a unique sweet and tangy flavor that’s key to this sauce. You might try roasted red peppers for a milder alternative, but the dish won’t deliver quite the same depth without them.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cream sauce?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a dairy-free twist. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ, but it can still be delicious and creamy.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu make excellent additions. Simply cook and mix them in during the final step for a heartier meal.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or finish with a drizzle of hot chili oil. Both options infuse just the right amount of heat without overpowering the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe that makes it a go-to for busy nights and leisurely dinners alike. It’s an effortless yet flavorful celebration of simple ingredients working in harmony. I can’t wait for you to try this dish and make it part of your own kitchen favorites — trust me, it will charm your taste buds every time.
Print
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Spaghetti and Spinach dish tossed in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. This vegetarian dinner combines tender pasta with fresh spinach and a rich Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Fats
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti as per the package instructions, typically boiling in salted water until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, to release its aroma.
- Add spinach and sun-dried tomatoes: Stir in the fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Continue cooking until the spinach has wilted, which should take 2–3 minutes.
- Create the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir gently and cook the sauce until it is heated through and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is well coated with the creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Serve: Plate the pasta while hot and enjoy immediately for the best flavors and texture.
Notes
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a richer flavor.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a spicy kick.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
