This creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato spaghetti is a fabulous mix of flavors. The rich sauce is made with fresh spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of cheese!
Honestly, it’s a dinner that feels fancy without all the fuss. I love how quick it is to whip up, so I can enjoy it even on my busiest nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I choose traditional spaghetti, but you could swap it for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter option. Just be mindful of cooking times, especially for gluten-free pasta!
Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil adds a lovely richness. You can use canola or vegetable oil if you’re in a pinch, but it won’t have the same flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I recommend oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. If you only have dried ones, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes to soften. You can also use roasted red peppers for a slightly different taste.
Heavy Cream: If you prefer a lighter option, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream. The sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be creamy and delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do I Get the Sauce to Be Creamy and Smooth?
The key to a beautifully creamy sauce is careful blending of your ingredients. Start with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor base, then add the cream slowly while stirring. This ensures everything combines well.
- Always heat cream gently. Avoid boiling it, as this can cause separation.
- Stir in the Parmesan gradually, allowing it to melt fully into the sauce for a smooth texture.
- If your sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water slowly until you reach your desired creaminess.
These tips help create a luscious, creamy sauce without any lumps. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the spaghetti and another 10 minutes making the creamy sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s done cooking, drain the pasta, but make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the spaghetti aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. This is where you’ll get that yummy garlic aroma! Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors mingle.
3. Add Spinach:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach leaves. Stir them into the skillet and cook until they are wilted, which will take about 2-3 minutes. The spinach adds a nice touch of color and nutrition!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to make it creamy! Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it starts to bubble slightly, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Don’t forget to season it with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If you find that the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat and give it a final taste. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a lovely finishing touch.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful spaghetti! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, you can use any pasta shape you like. Try penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the Parmesan cheese or use a vegetarian alternative. To make it vegan, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk plus a bit of butter, or a plant-based cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich, but it will still taste great!
