Description
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a creamy, savory pasta dish that perfectly balances tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s ideal for a wholesome weeknight meal or an elegant dinner for guests.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
For the Sauce
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and well-drained
- 1–2 tablespoons reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the fresh spinach leaves to wilt them.
- Drain the pasta and spinach together and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Pour in the broth (vegetable or chicken) and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cream and Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the sour cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti and spinach to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Serve
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter for a glossy finish.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.
Notes
- Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth to keep the dish fully vegetarian.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Swap the Pasta: Feel free to use gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or any pasta shape you love.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make excellent additions for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired