Easy Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Discover a quick, creamy Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce recipe perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender pasta, vibrant spinach, and rich sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious cream sauce that feels both comforting and gourmet. It’s a perfect balance of fresh greens and bold flavors, delivering a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich, creamy texture: The sauce is silky and indulgent without being heavy.
• Vibrant flavors: Sun-dried tomatoes add a punchy sweetness that complements fresh spinach perfectly.
• Simple ingredients: Uses accessible pantry staples and fresh veggies for a fuss-free cooking experience.
• Vegetarian-friendly: It’s a fulfilling vegetarian meal that even meat lovers enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty pasta to the luscious cream and tangy tomatoes, every component plays a vital role in making this recipe shine.

• Spaghetti pasta: Traditional long noodles that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a tender leafy bite to the dish.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Provide a concentrated, sweet-tart flavor that lifts the sauce.
• Heavy cream: Creates the rich base for the sauce, making it smooth and decadent.
• Garlic cloves: Offer aromatic depth and a mild kick to the sauce.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, adding a fruity undertone.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for that nutty, savory finish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to balance and enhance all flavors.

Variations for Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, meaning you can easily tweak it to suit your dietary preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to get creative or keep it classic!

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for added protein and heartiness.
• Vegan swap: Use coconut cream and vegan parmesan to make it dairy-free without sacrificing creaminess.
• Extra veggies: Toss in mushrooms or roasted red peppers for more texture and earthiness.
• Herb infusion: Fresh basil or thyme can enhance the herbal aroma and brighten the flavors.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle red chili flakes while cooking to introduce some heat.

How to Make Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add spaghetti. Cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, stirring until fragrant and softened, about two minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the sautéed ingredients. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Stir in fresh spinach leaves, cooking just until wilted. This helps retain that bright color and fresh flavor.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the cream sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed, ensuring every strand is well coated.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

• Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes: They provide the best flavor punch, so opt for oil-packed varieties if possible.
• Don’t overcook the spinach: Adding it last keeps it bright and tender, not soggy.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is key to adjusting sauce consistency perfectly.
• Balance seasoning: Taste as you go to avoid over-salting, especially with cheese in the dish.
• Serve immediately: The sauce thickens as it cools, so enjoy it fresh for the best texture.

How to Serve Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. For a burst of freshness, add chopped fresh basil or parsley right before serving.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette and some crusty garlic bread perfectly complement this creamy pasta, adding refreshing and crunchy contrasts.

Creative Ways to Present

Twirl the spaghetti into neat nests on the plate for an elegant touch, and serve in shallow white bowls to highlight the vibrant red and green colors of the sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep sauce and pasta together for best flavor.

Freezing

While cream-based pasta can change texture when frozen, you can freeze the sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain excess water thoroughly to avoid diluting the sauce.

Is sun-dried tomato paste a good substitute?

You can use sun-dried tomato paste for a more intense flavor but reduce the quantity since it’s more concentrated.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free, vegan version.

What wine pairs well with this pasta?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the creamy sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is one of those dishes you’ll want to keep returning to. Its mix of creamy texture, fresh greens, and rich, tangy accents makes for a truly heartwarming meal that feels special without requiring a ton of effort. Give it a try tonight – your taste buds will thank you!

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