Craving a delicious dish that’s both quick and satisfying? This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect solution to your pasta desires. Ready in just 20 minutes, this meal features a delightful combination of creamy textures and tangy flavors that will transform any simple dinner night into an extraordinary culinary experience. The contrast between the earthy spinach and the rich, sun-dried tomatoes creates an indulgence that feels like a treat but fits your busy schedule effortlessly. Not only is this pasta dish delicious, but it’s also a nutritious choice thanks to whole-wheat spaghetti and fresh vegetables.
This recipe is a surefire way to impress family, friends, or even just yourself on a cozy night in. It seamlessly blends the robust garlic and peppery notes with a creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. As each bite greets your palate, the balance of salty Parmesan and the subtle heat from the crushed red pepper flakes unveils a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re an accomplished home chef or a novice in the kitchen, this dish’s simplicity and flavor will make it one of your go-to favorites.
So what makes this Spaghetti with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce a stand-out dish? It’s versatile, comforting, and sophisticated, with quick prep and hardly any cleanup. With this recipe in your culinary arsenal, you can effortlessly taste the richness and freshness of Italian-inspired cooking every single time you prepare it.
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Quick and easy to prepare — ready in just 20 minutes!
- Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor that delights your taste buds.
- Uses wholesome ingredients like whole-wheat spaghetti and fresh spinach.
- Perfect for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for guests.
- Customizable with different proteins, vegetables, and spices.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into creating your culinary masterpiece, it’s crucial to set up your kitchen efficiently. Start by clearing your cooking space to allow for seamless movement as you prepare the meal. Gather all the necessary ingredients and utensils you’ll need for this recipe. A large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, and a skillet for making the sauce are essential. Additionally, you’ll need a cutting board and knife for slicing the onions and chopping the spinach.
Having a set of measuring spoons and cups on hand will ensure accurate measurements of ingredients, such as the oils and seasonings. Preparing in advance, such as slicing onions and mincing garlic, makes the cooking process more fluid and enjoyable. Don’t forget a pair of tongs for efficiently tossing the pasta and spinach with the sauce, which helps in achieving even coating and flavor throughout your dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole-wheat spaghetti
- 5 oz baby spinach, chopped
- ½ cup slivered sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed
- 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)
- ½ cup onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Wilt the Spinach
To begin, place the chopped spinach into a colander sitting in your sink. As you cook your pasta, ensure to use a generous amount of water. Once the pasta is cooked to your preferred level of al dente, pour the steaming pasta and hot water directly over the spinach in the colander. The hot water will gently wilt the spinach, leaving it vibrant but softened. Allow everything to drain thoroughly to prevent excess water from watering down your sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
Next, in a large skillet, heat up the sun-dried tomato oil over a medium flame. Once the oil is hot, introduce the slivered sun-dried tomatoes and sliced onions to the pan. Allow these ingredients to sauté for around three minutes until the onions become soft and slightly translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Spice
Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let these flavors mix and develop by cooking them for an additional minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant but before it browns. This brief sauté ensures the garlic infuses the dish with its robust, distinctive flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Broth
Increase the heat setting to medium-high. Carefully pour the broth into the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for about two minutes, which reduces the broth slightly and concentrates the flavor, creating a taste-packed foundation for your sauce.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat to a low setting before adding the sour cream, grated Parmesan, and butter into the skillet. Stir continuously as these dairy components melt and meld into the broth, forming a velvety, luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the spaghetti.
Step 6: Toss the Pasta
In the final step, add the cooked spaghetti and wilted spinach to the sauce. Use tongs to toss the ingredients gently but thoroughly, ensuring every noodle is coated lovingly with the cream sauce. Once combined evenly, remove from heat and prepare to serve immediately for the best results.
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for additional protein, allowing the flavors to seep into the meat while mixing with the pasta.
- Vegetables: Incorporate mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients; sauté them along with the onions.
- Spices: Experiment with flavors by adding basil, oregano, or thyme for a traditional Italian flavor or extra zing.
Cooking Notes
- Use a large pot and sufficient water to prevent pasta from sticking together.
- Control the heat carefully to avoid burning the garlic, which can impart a bitter taste.
- Taste the sauce before mixing with pasta to balance seasonings to your liking.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley for a vibrant presentation.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and consistency.
- Consider toasting the sun-dried tomatoes briefly before adding them for enhanced texture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 390mg
FAQs
Can I use regular spaghetti instead of whole-wheat?
Yes, regular spaghetti will work just as well though the flavor and nutritional content will vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Certainly! Swap the Parmesan and sour cream for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Use within 2-3 days for best taste.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes for a different twist.
Conclusion
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a dish that is as delightful as it is quick to prepare. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it a must-try for any pasta lover looking to elevate their weeknight routine. The ease of preparation, coupled with the luxurious result, ensures that this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen. Experiment with different variations and share your creations with friends and family. We hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious pasta as much as we do! Bon appétit!
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Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This spaghetti dish offers creamy textures with tangy flavors, combining wholesome ingredients like whole-wheat spaghetti and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole-wheat spaghetti
- 5 oz baby spinach, chopped
- ½ cup slivered sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed
- 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)
- ½ cup onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- To begin, place the chopped spinach into a colander sitting in your sink. As you cook your pasta, ensure to use a generous amount of water. Once the pasta is cooked to your preferred level of al dente, pour the steaming pasta and hot water directly over the spinach in the colander. The hot water will gently wilt the spinach, leaving it vibrant but softened. Allow everything to drain thoroughly to prevent excess water from watering down your sauce later.
- Next, in a large skillet, heat up the sun-dried tomato oil over a medium flame. Once the oil is hot, introduce the slivered sun-dried tomatoes and sliced onions to the pan. Allow these ingredients to sauté for around three minutes until the onions become soft and slightly translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.
- Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let these flavors mix and develop by cooking them for an additional minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant but before it browns. This brief sauté ensures the garlic infuses the dish with its robust, distinctive flavor.
- Increase the heat setting to medium-high. Carefully pour the broth into the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for about two minutes, which reduces the broth slightly and concentrates the flavor, creating a taste-packed foundation for your sauce.
- Reduce the heat to a low setting before adding the sour cream, grated Parmesan, and butter into the skillet. Stir continuously as these dairy components melt and meld into the broth, forming a velvety, luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the spaghetti.
- In the final step, add the cooked spaghetti and wilted spinach to the sauce. Use tongs to toss the ingredients gently but thoroughly, ensuring every noodle is coated lovingly with the cream sauce. Once combined evenly, remove from heat and prepare to serve immediately for the best results.
Notes
Experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and spices to personalize this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Protein: 15 g