Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
A delightful creamy Italian pasta dish combining al dente spaghetti, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes simmered in a rich heavy cream sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. This flavorful vegetarian meal is quick to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti & Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside without rinsing.
- Prepare Spinach: While pasta cooks, rinse fresh spinach thoroughly in cold water and drain.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the cream sauce and vegetables. Toss gently to coat the pasta well with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil if desired.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with buttery garlic bread for soaking up the sauce.
- Add grilled chicken or turkey bacon for extra protein and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut or nut-based cream, Parmesan with nutritional yeast, and use vegan pasta.
Keywords: Spaghetti, Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomato, Cream Sauce, Quick Meal, Italian Pasta, Vegetarian
