Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce: A Quick and Elegant Vegetarian Dinner

⚖️
Difficulty
Easy

⏲️
Prep Time
10 mins

🕒
Cook Time
20 mins

⏱️
Total Time
30 mins

🍽
Servings
4

Imagine a pasta dish that feels both decadently rich and surprisingly light, a meal that comes together in the time it takes to boil water. This spaghetti and spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is exactly that kind of culinary magic. It transforms simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into a vibrant and satisfying vegetarian dinner that will impress even the most discerning palates. The sauce, a beautiful blush color, clings perfectly to every strand of spaghetti, while the fresh spinach adds a pop of green and a nutritional boost. Ultimately, this recipe is your new secret weapon for a busy weeknight that still demands something special.

The beauty of this sun-dried tomato cream sauce lies in its depth of flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes offer an intense, sweet-tart umami punch that forms the robust foundation of the dish. When blended with creamy elements, they create a velvety texture that is far more complex than a standard tomato sauce. Furthermore, the fresh spinach wilts gently into the warm pasta, providing a tender contrast and making the meal feel complete and well-balanced. This is a one-pan pasta recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to what you have on hand, making it a fantastic clean-out-the-fridge meal. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe provides clear, straightforward steps for a foolproof outcome. The entire process, from chopping to serving, is designed for efficiency and flavor development. Consequently, you will have a gorgeous, comforting plate of food on the table in about thirty minutes, proving that a delicious and elegant dinner doesn’t have to be complicated.

Quick Recipe Highlights

  • Flavor Profile: This dish boasts a spectacular balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy notes. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated umami richness, which is beautifully mellowed by the cream and Parmesan cheese. A hint of garlic and herbs rounds out the sauce, creating a deeply savory experience.
  • Texture: You will enjoy a wonderful interplay of textures in every bite. The spaghetti offers a firm al dente base, while the cream sauce is luxuriously smooth and velvety. The spinach wilts into tender ribbons, and the sun-dried tomatoes provide a delightful, slightly chewy contrast.
  • Aroma: As this cooks, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible fragrance. The initial scent of sautéing garlic is followed by the rich, tangy aroma of sun-dried tomatoes melding with cream. Finally, the fresh, earthy scent of wilted spinach and nutty Parmesan cheese completes the sensory experience.
  • Visual Appeal: This pasta is a feast for the eyes with its stunning color palette. The creamy sauce has a beautiful rosy hue from the tomatoes, dotted with vibrant red tomato pieces and deep green spinach. It is a dish that looks as incredible on the plate as it tastes.
  • Skill Level Needed: This is a perfect recipe for cooks of all levels, especially beginners. The techniques involved are fundamental: boiling pasta, sautéing garlic, and simmering a sauce. Therefore, no advanced culinary skills are required to achieve a spectacular result.
  • Special Equipment: You need only standard kitchen equipment. A large pot for boiling spaghetti, a large skillet or saucepan for the sauce, and a measuring cup and spoons are sufficient. A cheese grater for fresh Parmesan is highly recommended for the best flavor.

Recipe Overview

  • Difficulty Level: We classify this recipe as easy because it utilizes straightforward cooking techniques. The steps are sequential and simple, involving basic sautéing and simmering. Moreover, the margin for error is small, as the flavors naturally meld together beautifully. This makes it an ideal choice for a stress-free cooking experience.
  • Category: This dish falls squarely into the main course category for a vegetarian meal. It is substantial enough to stand on its own but can also be served as a larger portion of a multi-course Italian-inspired dinner. It is perfect for a quick lunch or a formal dinner party.
  • Cuisine: The recipe is inspired by Italian culinary traditions, utilizing classic ingredients like spaghetti, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. However, it is a modern fusion dish that emphasizes quick preparation and creamy sauces, which are popular in contemporary American home cooking.
  • Cost: This is a very cost-effective meal to prepare. Sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan are the primary investments, but a little of each goes a long way. Pasta, spinach, and basic pantry staples like garlic and cream make up the rest, resulting in a gourmet-tasting meal for a fraction of the cost of eating out.
  • Season: This recipe is truly versatile across all seasons. It provides comforting warmth during the fall and winter months. Conversely, its bright, tangy flavors feel surprisingly fresh and appropriate for spring and summer evenings, especially when served at room temperature.
  • Occasion: This spaghetti is incredibly versatile for any event. It is a quintessential weeknight dinner savior, a romantic meal for two, or a impressive yet easy option for entertaining guests. Its universal appeal and elegant presentation make it suitable for both casual and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

First and foremost, the taste and texture of this dish are simply phenomenal. The sun-dried tomato cream sauce delivers an intense, savory flavor that is both rich and balanced. Each forkful of spaghetti coated in the velvety sauce, paired with the tender spinach and chewy tomatoes, creates a symphony in your mouth. The depth of flavor is remarkable for a recipe with such a short ingredient list. Consequently, you will find yourself going back for seconds, amazed that something so simple can be so deeply satisfying and complex.

From a convenience standpoint, this recipe is a true weeknight hero. It requires minimal prep work and uses mostly pantry-stable ingredients. You can have this elegant meal on the table in thirty minutes flat, making it faster than delivery. The process is straightforward and forgiving, which means you can cook it with confidence after a long day. Furthermore, it is a one-saucepan recipe for the sauce, which translates to very little cleanup. This efficiency makes it a go-to recipe in your regular dinner rotation.

Nutritionally, this meal offers several advantages. Spinach is a powerhouse green, packed with iron, vitamins A, C, and K. Sun-dried tomatoes are concentrated sources of antioxidants like lycopene. Using whole wheat spaghetti can easily increase the fiber content. While the cream adds indulgence, you can control the portion size to balance the meal. Therefore, you are enjoying a decadent-tasting pasta while still incorporating valuable nutrients from whole food ingredients.

For social and entertaining value, this dish is a star. It is visually stunning and tastes gourmet, making your guests feel pampered. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd without significantly increasing your kitchen time. Because it is so quick to prepare, you can spend more time with your guests and less time stuck in the kitchen. It is a reliable recipe that consistently receives rave reviews, ensuring you become known for your amazing pasta dishes.

Finally, the cost-effectiveness and accessibility of this spaghetti are unbeatable. The ingredients are affordable and readily available at any standard grocery store. You can create a restaurant-quality meal for a family for a fraction of the cost of dining out. Staple ingredients like pasta and garlic keep the budget low, while the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan provide a luxury feel without a luxury price tag. This accessibility means you can enjoy a special, comforting meal any night of the week.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The story of this dish is a modern tale of culinary fusion. Sun-dried tomatoes have a long history in Southern Italian cuisine, specifically in regions like Apulia and Sicily, where the hot, dry climate was ideal for preserving summer’s tomato harvest. Traditionally, tomatoes were halved and laid on wooden racks under the intense Mediterranean sun. This method concentrated their sugars and acids, creating a chewy, intensely flavored ingredient that could be stored for months, providing vital nutrition during the winter. This preservation technique was a cornerstone of the Italian cucina povera, or “poor kitchen,” ethos.

Culturally, the integration of sun-dried tomatoes into creamy pasta sauces is a more recent development, largely popularized in the late 20th century. As Italian-American cuisine evolved in the United States, chefs and home cooks began experimenting with traditional ingredients, combining them with richer elements like heavy cream, which was more readily available than in Italy. This creation reflects a beautiful blend of old-world preservation techniques and new-world innovation and abundance. It represents how immigrant cuisines adapt and flourish in new environments.

The evolution of this specific recipe is tied to the rise of vegetarianism and the demand for quick, meatless meals. As more people sought flavorful vegetarian options, dishes like this spaghetti and spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce gained prominence. They offered a satisfying, “meaty” texture and deep umami flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes without any meat. Simultaneously, the health trends of the 1980s and 1990s brought spinach to the forefront as a superfood, making its inclusion in pasta dishes both nutritionally and culinarily appealing.

Regional variations of this concept are endless. In Italy, you might find a similar dish using pasta like penne or fusilli, with the sauce based on ricotta or mascarpone instead of heavy cream. In American kitchens, adaptations might include adding artichoke hearts, grilled chicken, or shrimp. Some versions use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, while others incorporate red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This spaghetti recipe, therefore, is not a static entity but a versatile template that continues to evolve in home kitchens and restaurants around the world.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are the undisputed star of the dish, providing a powerful umami punch. Historically, they were a vital preservation method in Mediterranean cultures, allowing people to enjoy the flavor of tomatoes year-round. Nutritionally, they are a concentrated source of the antioxidant lycopene, which is linked to heart health, and they also provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. When selecting, choose tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor and pliability; they should be moist and deep red. Store them in their oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For a substitution, you can use tomato paste for a different but still intense tomato flavor, or use oven-roasted cherry tomatoes for a fresher, less concentrated taste.

Fresh Spinach: This leafy green adds color, texture, and a major nutritional boost. Spinach has a global history, with its origins in ancient Persia, and it has been cultivated for centuries across Asia and Europe. It is famously rich in iron, though it also provides immense amounts of vitamins A, C, and K, along with folate and magnesium. Look for vibrant, dark green leaves with no signs of yellowing or wilting. Store it in the refrigerator in its original bag or a container lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture. If you need to substitute, other sturdy greens like kale or Swiss chard work well, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time to wilt properly.

Heavy Cream: This ingredient is responsible for the sauce’s luxurious, velvety texture. Cream has been a dairy staple for millennia, used to enrich dishes across many European cuisines. It provides a rich source of fat, which carries flavors and creates a satisfying mouthfeel. For the best results, use fresh, high-fat heavy cream or whipping cream, which will resist curdling when heated. Always store cream in the coldest part of your refrigerator. For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat canned coconut milk is an excellent substitute that provides a similar richness.

Parmesan Cheese: This hard, aged cheese adds a critical salty, nutty dimension to the sauce. True Parmigiano-Reggiano comes from a specific region in Italy and is protected by law, having been made in largely the same way for over 800 years. It is a natural source of umami and is rich in protein and calcium. For the best flavor, always buy a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself; pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Store the block wrapped in parchment paper and then in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano offers a sharper, saltier flavor, while a vegetarian hard cheese can be used to maintain the dish’s vegetarian status.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the Garlic: Sautéing the garlic for too long will make it bitter and burn, which can ruin the entire sauce. The goal is to cook it just until it becomes fragrant, which usually takes only about 30 to 60 seconds. Consequently, you preserve its sweet, aromatic quality without introducing any harsh, burnt notes.
  • Using Pre-Shredded Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which prevents it from melting smoothly into the sauce. This can result in a grainy or slightly gritty texture. For a perfectly silky sauce, always take the extra minute to grate a block of fresh Parmesan cheese yourself.
  • Boiling the Cream Sauce: Once you add the cream to the pan, you must never let it come to a rolling boil. High heat can cause the cream to curdle or separate, giving the sauce an unpleasant appearance and texture. Instead, keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the dairy components.
  • Neglecting Pasta Water: Do not drain all of your starchy pasta water. This water is liquid gold for creating a cohesive sauce. The starch helps the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce emulsify and cling to every strand of spaghetti. Always reserve at least a cup before draining your pasta.
  • Overcrowding the Pan: If you are using a skillet that is too small, the spinach will steam rather than wilt efficiently. This can make it watery and dilute your sauce. Use a large, wide pan to allow the spinach enough space to wilt quickly and evenly in the heat of the sauce.
  • Underseasoning the Dish: Pasta and cream require a generous amount of seasoning. Do not forget to salt your pasta water well, and always taste the final sauce before serving. The saltiness of Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes varies, so you must adjust with salt and pepper at the end to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor.
  • Rinsing the Cooked Pasta: Rinsing pasta after cooking washes away the essential surface starch that helps the sauce adhere. Unless you are making a pasta salad, you should never rinse your cooked spaghetti. Instead, transfer it directly from the pot to the sauce pan to combine.
  • Using Low-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The flavor of your sauce is entirely dependent on the quality of this ingredient. Avoid dry, packaged sun-dried tomatoes that are not in oil, as they can be tough and lack flavor. Investing in good-quality, oil-packed tomatoes makes a monumental difference in the final dish.

Essential Techniques

Sautéing Aromatics: This foundational technique involves cooking garlic in oil over medium heat to release its essential oils and develop its flavor. The key is to heat the oil until it shimmers before adding the garlic. Then, you must stir constantly to ensure even cooking and prevent any pieces from burning. The visual cue for success is when the garlic becomes just lightly golden and incredibly fragrant, which happens quickly. If it turns brown, it will taste bitter, so vigilance during this short step is critical for a sweet, mellow garlic base.

Creating an Emulsified Sauce: This technique is what gives the sauce its luxurious, cohesive texture that clings to the pasta. It involves combining fat (the cream and oil) with a water-based liquid (the reserved starchy pasta water) and vigorously tossing them together. The starch from the pasta water acts as an emulsifier, binding the components and preventing separation. You must add the pasta water gradually while tossing the spaghetti and sauce continuously over low heat. The success is visible when the sauce thickens slightly, becomes opaque, and smoothly coats the back of a spoon.

Wilting Spinach: This simple technique involves adding a large volume of fresh spinach to a hot pan, where it quickly reduces in size and becomes tender. The key is to add the spinach in batches if your pan is small, using tongs to toss it constantly in the hot sauce. This allows the leaves to wilt evenly from the residual heat without requiring additional cooking time. The visual cue is when the spinach turns a vibrant dark green and becomes completely limp. Overcooking at this stage will make the spinach mushy and cause it to release too much water into your sauce.

Pro Tips for Perfect Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Firstly, use the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar to sauté your garlic. This oil is already infused with incredible tomato flavor and will deepen the taste of your entire sauce from the very first step.

Always salt your pasta water generously. It should taste like the sea, as this is the only opportunity you have to season the pasta itself from the inside out, creating a well-seasoned foundation for the dish.

Reserve more pasta water than you think you will need. Start by adding a half-cup to the sauce, and then gradually add more until you achieve the perfect saucy consistency that coats the spaghetti evenly.

Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes after adding the cream. This brief cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and helps the sauce thicken slightly, resulting in a richer, more developed flavor profile.

Add the fresh spinach off the heat. The residual heat in the pan and sauce is usually sufficient to wilt the spinach perfectly, preventing it from overcooking and becoming slimy.

For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of the starchy pasta water to the sauce before adding the cream. The starch will help stabilize the sauce and ensure it clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

Finish the dish with a final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a fresh grating of Parmesan cheese right before serving. This adds a layer of fresh flavor and a professional touch.

Variations and Adaptations

For regional variations, you can take this dish in many directions. A Tuscan-inspired version might include cannellini beans and fresh sage. For a Southern Italian twist, add capers, olives, and a pinch of chili flakes. An American adaptation often involves adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a protein boost, turning it into a more substantial main course. Each region’s pantry staples can inspire a new and delicious version of this versatile pasta.

Seasonal adaptations are simple and effective. In the spring, add fresh peas and asparagus tips along with the spinach. During summer, incorporate fresh basil and chopped ripe cherry tomatoes for a brighter flavor. In the autumn, mix in roasted mushrooms or cubes of roasted butternut squash for an earthy, hearty twist. Winter calls for heartier greens like kale, which should be added a minute earlier to soften properly.

Dietary modifications are straightforward. For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk and use a nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternative. For a vegan dish, follow the dairy-free steps and ensure the sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil without any dairy contaminants. A keto or low-carb version can be made by using zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles in place of spaghetti.

Flavor variations can customize the dish to your palate. Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence to the garlic as it sautés. For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes with the garlic. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the rich sauce. Alternatively, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the garlic for an even deeper tomato flavor before adding the cream.

Serving and Presentation Guide

Plating techniques can elevate this simple dish to restaurant quality. Use a carving fork or pasta server to twirl a neat nest of spaghetti in the center of a warm, shallow bowl. This creates height and makes the dish look more intentional. Spoon the extra sauce, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes over and around the pasta nest, ensuring every element is visible. Avoid overfilling the bowl; leaving a clean border around the edge makes the presentation look clean and sophisticated.

Garnishing is the final touch that adds color and fresh flavor. A light snowfall of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential. Then, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green. A final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds shine and richness. For a textural contrast, you can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs. These small additions make the dish visually stunning and more complex to eat.

Consider traditional accompaniments to round out the meal. A simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the creamy sauce. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce from the plate. For a more formal dinner, start with a light antipasto platter or a bowl of soup. These pairings create a balanced and satisfying dining experience that feels complete and well-considered.

Wine and Beverage Pairing

Selecting the right wine enhances the dining experience tremendously. For this spaghetti, a white wine with good acidity cuts through the richness of the cream sauce beautifully. A Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc offers crisp citrus notes that contrast the savory tomatoes. Alternatively, a light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir can also work well, as its bright red fruit flavors and low tannins won’t overpower the dish. The key is to avoid heavily oaked wines or high-tannin reds, which can clash with the tomatoes and cream.

For non-alcoholic alternatives, consider beverages that balance cream and acidity. Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime provides a palate-cleansing effervescence. A tart cherry juice or pomegranate spritzer can mirror the fruity acidity of a wine pairing. Iced herbal teas, such as lemon verbena or mint, are also refreshing choices. These options ensure that everyone can enjoy a perfectly paired beverage with their meal, regardless of their preference.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is key to maintaining quality. Cool the leftover pasta completely to room temperature before storing, but do not leave it out for more than two hours. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb the sauce, so it will be less saucy upon reheating. You cannot freeze this dish successfully, as the cream sauce is very likely to separate and become grainy upon thawing. The spinach will also become unpleasantly watery.

Reheating requires a gentle touch to preserve the sauce’s texture. The best method is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or water to the pasta in a saucepan and stir gently until warmed through. This reconstitutes the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can heat unevenly and cause the sauce to separate. If you must use a microwave, do so in short intervals, stirring between each and adding a tablespoon of liquid to help the sauce come back together.

Make Ahead Strategies

You can efficiently break down the recipe components for easy assembly later. The sun-dried tomatoes can be sliced a day in advance and stored in their oil in the refrigerator. The garlic can be minced and kept in a small airtight container. You can also grate the Parmesan cheese ahead of time. However, do not mix these prepped ingredients until you are ready to cook, as their flavors are best when fresh.

For the best results, cook the sauce and pasta just before serving. The creamy sauce does not hold well for extended periods, as it will thicken and the pasta will continue to absorb it. If you must make it entirely ahead, undercook the pasta by a minute or two and store it tossed with a little oil to prevent sticking. Then, gently reheat the sauce separately and combine them just before serving, using a splash of hot water to loosen the sauce to the right consistency.

Scaling Instructions

Scaling this recipe up or down is straightforward because it uses simple ratios. To halve the recipe, simply use half of every ingredient. Use a smaller skillet to ensure the sauce reduces properly. The cooking times will remain largely the same. To double or triple the recipe for a crowd, use a very large pot or Dutch oven for the sauce. You may need to increase the simmering time by a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken appropriately after adding the cream. Be sure to use a pot large enough to eventually toss all the spaghetti with the sauce.

Nutritional Deep Dive

This dish offers a interesting nutritional profile. The spaghetti provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. The spinach contributes a significant amount of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and folate. Sun-dried tomatoes are a powerhouse of the antioxidant lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provide fat and protein, which contribute to satiety. To make it lighter, you can use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber, reduce the amount of cream, or increase the proportion of spinach. As with any rich pasta dish, portion control is the key to enjoying it as part of a balanced diet.

Dietary Adaptations

For a gluten-free version, the adaptation is simple. Substitute the regular spaghetti with a high-quality gluten-free pasta made from brown rice, corn, or quinoa. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as the sun-dried tomatoes, are certified gluten-free. Follow the recipe exactly as written, paying close attention to the pasta cooking time, as gluten-free pasta often has different requirements and can become mushy if overcooked.

Creating a dairy-free and vegan version is entirely possible. Replace the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk for a similar richness. Use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy, umami flavor. Ensure the sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil without any dairy derivatives. The method remains the same, and the result is a wonderfully creamy and satisfying plant-based pasta dish that everyone can enjoy.

Troubleshooting Guide

If your sauce is too thin, the most common solution is to let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also create a slurry with a teaspoon of cornstarch and a tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Alternatively, add more grated Parmesan cheese, which will help thicken the sauce while adding flavor. If the sauce is too thick, the fix is easy: simply whisk in more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

If your sauce has separated or looks curdled, it is likely because the heat was too high when the cream was added. To fix it, immediately remove the pan from the heat. You can try vigorously whisking in a tablespoon of cold cream or a splash of pasta water. Sometimes, transferring the sauce to a blender and blending for a few seconds can re-emulsify it. To prevent this in the future, always add cream to a gently simmering base and avoid boiling the sauce afterwards.

Recipe Success Stories

This spaghetti recipe has become a beloved staple in many households. One home cook reported that it was the first meal she mastered and now makes it weekly for her family, who cheer every time they see it on the table. Another reader shared that she added grilled chicken and now it’s her go-to meal for dinner parties, always earning her compliments. The versatility of the dish is a common theme in success stories, with many people feeling empowered to add their own personal touches, like a pinch of chili flake or a handful of mushrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be noticeably thinner and less rich. The final result will still be tasty, but it will lack the luxurious, velvety texture that heavy cream provides. To help thicken it, you might let it simmer a bit longer or add a little extra Parmesan cheese at the end.

What can I use if I don’t have oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes?

If you only have dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, you will need to rehydrate them before using. Simply place them in a bowl and cover with hot water for about 20 minutes until they soften. Then, drain and chop them. Since they won’t come with oil, you will need to use regular olive oil for sautéing the garlic.

Is this sauce freezer-friendly?

Unfortunately, no. Cream-based sauces do not freeze well because they tend to separate and become grainy upon thawing. The texture becomes unpleasant. This dish is best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. We do not recommend freezing the completed pasta dish.

Can I add protein to this pasta?

Absolutely. This recipe is a fantastic base for added protein. Diced, cooked chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or even canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained) are excellent additions. Simply stir in your cooked protein when you add the spaghetti to the sauce to warm it through.

Why is my sauce so oily?

This usually happens if the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar is not drained adequately before using. When you scoop the tomatoes from the jar, let the excess oil drip off. You can also use a paper towel to pat them lightly. If your sauce is already oily, you can try skimming some off the top or blending it briefly to emulsify.

Can I make this sauce without a blender?

Yes, you do not need a blender for this recipe. The recipe is designed to be made entirely in one pan. Simply chop the sun-dried tomatoes finely before adding them to the sauce. The result will be a chunkier sauce, but it will be equally delicious. The creamy base comes from the cream and Parmesan, not from blending.

Additional Resources

If you loved this spaghetti and spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce, you might enjoy exploring other quick and creamy pasta recipes. Consider a classic Fettuccine Alfredo for another rich option, or a vibrant Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a seafood twist. For more vegetarian ideas, a Roasted Red Pepper Pasta or a hearty Mushroom Stroganoff are excellent choices. Mastering basic techniques like perfectly cooking al dente pasta or creating simple pan sauces will unlock a world of delicious dinner possibilities. Investing in a good-quality large skillet and a microplane for grating cheese will make your cooking experience even more enjoyable.

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Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce


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  • Author: Chef Billy

Description

A creamy and vibrant pasta dish featuring tender spaghetti, fresh spinach, and a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.

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