Few dishes capture the essence of comfort and sophistication quite like Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe hits all the right notes. With its combination of creamy richness, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, this pasta delivers a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It uses everyday ingredients, yet the flavors come together in a way that feels indulgent and satisfying. The silky cream sauce, infused with the bold taste of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh garlic, coats each strand of spaghetti, while the spinach adds a burst of freshness and color. A final garnish of aromatic basil elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Even better, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is both approachable and impressive. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this pasta dish so special.
Ingredients Breakdown
Every ingredient in Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce plays a unique and vital role, ensuring the dish is both flavorful and well-balanced:
- Spaghetti: The foundation of the recipe, spaghetti provides the perfect texture and structure to absorb the creamy sauce. Its long, slender shape ensures a satisfying twirl with every bite, making it a versatile choice for this dish. Feel free to substitute with gluten-free or whole-grain pasta if desired.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach not only enhances the dish’s nutritional profile but also contributes vibrant color and a delicate, earthy flavor. It’s a wonderful way to add a vegetable component without overpowering the dish.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little gems bring a bold, tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a softer texture and richer flavor, but dry-packed ones can work if rehydrated first.
- Heavy Cream and Parmesan: These two ingredients form the luscious, velvety sauce. Heavy cream provides a smooth base, while Parmesan adds depth and a savory, nutty finish. For a lighter version, consider substituting with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Fresh Basil: This aromatic herb ties the dish together with its bright, peppery notes. Fresh basil is ideal, but dried basil can work in a pinch—just use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the flavors.
Tips for Ingredient Selection
- Choose high-quality spaghetti for the best texture and taste.
- When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, opt for oil-packed varieties for ease of use and flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged to enhance the sauce’s creaminess.
- Consider substitutions like spinach alternatives (e.g., arugula) or vegan options to suit dietary needs.
With these ingredients and tips in hand, you’re ready to create a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
Cooking Spaghetti
The foundation of this dish starts with perfectly cooked spaghetti. To achieve this, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and generously salt it—this is your first opportunity to season the pasta. The water should taste as salty as the sea, ensuring the spaghetti absorbs some flavor during cooking.
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, typically 8–10 minutes for al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For this recipe, al dente is ideal as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.
Before draining, reserve about a cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid can be a lifesaver for adjusting the consistency of your cream sauce later. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside, lightly tossing it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent clumping while you prepare the sauce.
Sautéing Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This step sets the flavorful foundation for your sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Garlic burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Their natural oils will infuse the olive oil, creating a rich, aromatic base. Sauté for 1–2 minutes to soften the tomatoes and enhance their flavor.
For added depth, consider including finely chopped shallots or a pinch of red chili flakes. Shallots provide a subtle sweetness, while chili flakes add a gentle heat that complements the cream sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.
Once the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes are perfectly sautéed, you’re ready to move on to creating the cream sauce.
Preparing the Cream Sauce
A silky, lump-free cream sauce is the heart of this dish. Start by reducing the heat to medium-low after sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine with the flavored oil.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring the cream doesn’t boil, as high heat can cause it to curdle. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt fully into the cream. This step ensures the sauce becomes velvety smooth and richly flavored.
If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the spaghetti.
For a flavor boost, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth before adding the cream. These additions add depth and balance to the sauce without overpowering the dish. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, it’s time to incorporate the spinach.
Wilting Spinach
Adding spinach not only elevates the nutritional value of the dish but also enhances its visual appeal. Once your cream sauce is ready, toss in 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves. The heat from the sauce will wilt the spinach quickly.
Stir gently but consistently to ensure even wilting. This process typically takes 2–3 minutes. To retain the spinach’s vibrant green color, avoid overcooking it; you want it tender but not mushy.
If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can substitute with other greens like kale (finely chopped) or arugula. Frozen spinach is also an option—just thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the skillet to prevent watering down the sauce.
With the spinach perfectly wilted, your sauce is ready to meet the spaghetti.
Combining and Final Touches
Now it’s time to bring the dish together. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to ensure every strand is well coated. Use tongs or a pasta fork for easy mixing. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance the flavors. If you prefer a hint of spice, sprinkle in additional red chili flakes at this stage.
For a professional presentation, transfer the pasta to a serving plate or bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of aromatic freshness. Grate extra Parmesan cheese over the top for added richness, and if desired, drizzle with a touch of olive oil for a glossy finish.
Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak of flavor and texture. Paired with a simple salad or crusty garlic bread, this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is sure to impress!
Recipe Variations
One of the best features of this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you want to incorporate additional protein, make it low-carb, or adapt it for a vegan lifestyle, there are plenty of options to suit your preferences.
- Protein Add-Ons: Elevate the dish with the addition of grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or crispy tofu. These proteins pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Simply cook the protein separately and toss it into the skillet during the final mixing step.
- Low-Carb Alternatives: Replace traditional spaghetti with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or roasted spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb version. These alternatives absorb the sauce beautifully and offer their own unique textures.
- Vegan Adaptations: Swap out the heavy cream for cashew cream or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan to retain the cheesy flavor. Pair with vegan-friendly pasta or zoodles for a fully plant-based meal.
These variations allow you to customize the dish while maintaining its delicious essence. Whether you’re cooking for dietary needs or personal taste, this recipe is flexible enough to please everyone at the table.
Pairing Ideas
Complement this rich and creamy dish with simple sides and beverages that enhance its flavors:
- Suggested Sides: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Alternatively, a crisp Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Beverage Pairings: Pair the dish with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the creaminess. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber provides a refreshing palate cleanser.
These pairings complete the meal, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Cooking Tips and Troubleshooting
Even simple recipes can have their challenges. Here are tips to ensure flawless execution and solutions for common issues:
- Overcooking Spinach: Add spinach at the end and cook only until just wilted. Overcooked spinach can turn mushy and lose its vibrant color.
- Sauce Breaking or Separating: Avoid boiling the cream, as high heat can cause it to separate. Stir gently and consistently while cooking, and use fresh heavy cream for the best results.
- Reheating Leftovers: To prevent the sauce from drying out, reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s consistency.
By following these tips, you can troubleshoot and perfect your dish, ensuring every serving is as delightful as the first.
Conclusion
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Its combination of creamy richness, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a harmonious balance that’s sure to please any palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe offers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort.
The recipe’s flexibility is another standout feature. You can easily tailor it to fit dietary preferences or experiment with exciting variations, such as adding protein, switching to low-carb pasta, or making it vegan. Each version is as delightful as the original.
We’d love to hear your take on this dish! Share your creative adaptations, serving ideas, or any unique twists in the comments or with friends. This recipe is more than a meal—it’s an opportunity to explore and enjoy the art of cooking.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh before serving and combine with reheated sauce.
2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir gently to avoid separating the sauce.
3. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly to remove excess water before adding it to the sauce. This prevents the dish from becoming watery.
4. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While spaghetti is classic, you can use other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Shorter pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, also works well to hold the creamy sauce.
5. Can I make the sauce lighter?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative to reduce the richness while keeping the dish creamy.
6. What’s a good alternative to heavy cream for dairy-free options?
Cashew cream, coconut cream, or oat cream are excellent dairy-free substitutes that maintain the sauce’s silky texture.
7. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Its creamy texture and mild flavors are generally appealing to kids. For picky eaters, consider chopping the spinach finely or blending it into the sauce.
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This vibrant and creamy spaghetti dish features the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Spaghetti:
Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3️⃣ Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Wilt the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.
5️⃣ Combine with Spaghetti:
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
Plate the spaghetti and garnish with fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of cream for a lighter sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
