This creamy sun-dried tomato spaghetti is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with fresh spinach. It’s quick to make and oh-so-satisfying!
Honestly, who doesn’t adore spaghetti? The creamy sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes make it a winner in my book. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Any long pasta works, but I love using spaghetti for the classic feel. If gluten-free is needed, try chickpea or rice pasta, which holds up well in this creamy dish.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes give the best flavor and moisture. If unavailable, you can use regular sun-dried tomatoes; just soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or a plant-based cream can work in a pinch. I prefer heavy cream for its richness, but don’t hesitate to switch based on your dietary needs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that creamy texture. Pecorino Romano also works well for a sharper taste, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but baby kale or even frozen spinach will do. Just remember to thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it.
How Do You Create a Creamy Sauce Without Clumping?
Making a smooth, creamy sauce requires careful attention. Here’s how to ensure everything blends perfectly:
- Heat the cream gently to avoid boiling, which can prevent smoothness.
- Add cheese after the cream is warmed, mixing gradually until fully melted.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Incorporate spinach last, as it wilts quickly and adds a fresh touch without overcooking.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild heat
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Total Time Needed:
This tasty dish will take you about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing ingredients and cooking the spaghetti, followed by another 15 minutes making the sauce and combining everything together. Quick and scrumptious!
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 done, make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This water will help adjust the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells wonderful!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This step helps to release their amazing flavor into the oil and onions.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, it’s time to pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well until everything is creamy and beautifully combined.
5. Toss in the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to your creamy mixture, stirring gently until the spinach wilts down, which will take about 2 minutes. The color is going to be stunning!
6. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce:
Once the spinach is well mixed in, toss in the cooked spaghetti. If the sauce looks too thick, use the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Make it creamy and luscious just the way you like!
7. Season to Perfection:
Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Give everything a good toss to fully combine. You want to make sure every strand of spaghetti is coated in that creamy goodness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy sun-dried tomato spaghetti immediately. Feel free to garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s bursting with flavors!
Dig in and savor the delightful combination of creamy sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!
FAQ for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta works too, just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may differ from traditional pasta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor, and skip the butter for cooking or replace it with olive oil.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté them along with the onions for an even cook.
