Oh, spaghetti! It’s the ultimate comfort food. It’s amazing how something so simple can be transformed into an incredible meal that warms your heart and soul. One of my all-time favorite dishes has to be this delightful Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. I can still remember the first time I made this for a casual dinner party. My friends were blown away, and I just smiled, pretending I slaved over the stove all day! Spoiler alert: it takes less than 30 minutes!
The combination of the creamy sauce, the robustness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh hint of spinach makes my taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens, and who doesn’t love that? Let me take you through this exquisite recipe that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen!
What’s in Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?
- Spaghetti: The star of the show! I use standard dry spaghetti, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Fresh spinach: Besides adding a pop of color, fresh spinach provides vital nutrients and a subtle earthiness to the dish. I like to choose organic spinach from the local farmer’s market.
- Heavy cream: This gives the sauce its luscious, creamy texture. Organic heavy cream is my go-to for its rich flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: A little bit of tanginess goes a long way! I prefer using the oil-packed kind for added flavor, but dry sun-dried tomatoes work, too—just rehydrate them in water.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, of course! It melts beautifully into the sauce and adds a depth of flavor. I always use freshly grated cheese for the best results.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my choice, as it brings a robust flavor that enhances the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must—it fills your kitchen with one of the most heavenly aromas when sautéed.
- Red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat! Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. My spice-loving friends would probably double this!
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh basil leaves: Optional, but they add a fragrant, aromatic touch when sprinkled on top at the end.
Is Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Good for You?
This scrumptious pasta dish certainly has its perks! One of the standout ingredients is the fresh spinach, which is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and dietary fiber. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provide a rich source of calcium, but if you’re watching your calorie intake, you may want to consider lighter cream alternatives.
On the flip side, keep in mind this dish is definitely on the indulgent side. The combo of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese makes for a creamy, rich treat. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you could substitute light cream or Greek yogurt, but then you might end up sacrificing that luscious texture! Balance it out with a fresh side salad to complement the meal’s richness.
Ingredients List
- 250g spaghetti
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?
- Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—don’t let it brown!
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot and stir for another minute to combine the flavors.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a lovely, smooth sauce.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and fresh spinach to the pot, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the dish with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the spinach has wilted and every strand of pasta is lovingly coated in that creamy goodness.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips for the Best Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Keep an eye on the garlic. It adds a delicious flavor, but it can turn bitter if burnt!
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crunchy side salad or warm garlic bread for that extra lush experience.
- If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp works seamlessly.
Once you try this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, I’m certain it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation! It’s creamy, dreamy, and irresistible. I hope you enjoy making—and eating—it as much as I do! And when you do, please share your experiences with me. Happy cooking, friends!
