Name: Spaghetti and Spinach in Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a simple yet flavorful pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce, enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, creates a comforting and vibrant meal everyone will love.

A white bowl filled with a close-up view of spaghetti coated in a smooth, creamy orange-yellow sauce. The spaghetti strands are twisted neatly in layers, with visible dark green spinach leaves scattered throughout. Small pieces of crispy, dark red sun-dried tomatoes are spread on top, along with a sprinkling of coarse black pepper, adding texture and contrast. The background features a white marbled texture, highlighting the colorful dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Step 5: Add grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Step 7: Let the dish sit for a minute to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Step 8: Serve hot and enjoy your wonderful meal with family or friends!

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a plant-based cream alternative.
Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and texture.
Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor, but drain excess oil before adding.
Adjust red pepper flakes based on your desired heat level or omit for a milder dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl with creamy spaghetti coated in a light yellow sauce, topped with wilted green spinach leaves and small bits of red seasoning scattered on top. The spaghetti strands are mixed evenly, showing a smooth texture with some black pepper specks throughout. The bowl sits on a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach yields the best texture and flavor, but if using dried spinach, rehydrate it according to package instructions and use about half the quantity. Keep in mind the texture will be different.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make the dish gluten-free, simply substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce and other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.