Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Picture a steaming bowl of spaghetti, twirled to perfection, dressed in a dreamy sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and generously adorned with fresh spinach. Does it get any better? Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug ready to warm your soul! This creamy dish harmonizes the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with the healthful crunch of spinach, creating a delightful balance that your taste buds will thank you for.
What’s more, this enticing recipe is family-friendly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Busy evening ahead? Whip it up in under 30 minutes! If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, you’ll also want to check out our Classic Creamy Alfredo Pasta, which shares that comforting vibe but in a different way. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce—a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
What is Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?
Ah, the name! Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce rolls off the tongue like a symphony of flavors, doesn’t it? Why this tongue twister of a name? Well, who wouldn’t want to take a ride on the flavorful wave brought by sun-dried tomatoes combined with creamy goodness? It’s almost as if the name is saying, “Come, indulge in this delightful experience!”
Legend has it that this dish emerged from the need to jazz up our beloved spaghetti, transforming it from a simple noodle dish to a luxurious meal. You know what they say: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” So why not charm both hearts and taste buds with this dish? Now that you have a glimpse into why this delicious pasta deserves a slot on your dinner table, grab your apron and let’s make some magic happen!
Why You’ll Love This Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
This dish is pure comfort! The star ingredient—the sun-dried tomatoes—infuses the cream sauce with rich, deep flavors that will transport your taste buds to Italian trattorias. And wait—let’s talk about cost-saving benefits! Instead of dining out for an Italian meal, you can prepare this deliciousness at home for a fraction of the cost. No more stressing about restaurant prices when you can whip this up yourself!
For the finale, let’s not forget the vibrant spinach, which not only adds a pop of color but also contributes health benefits, making this recipe as nutritious as it is delectable. If you’re torn between this and a classic spaghetti marinara, consider this the gourmet upgrade to a well-loved favorite. Trust me; your kitchen will thank you for trying this. So, are you ready to dive in?
How to Make Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Quick Overview
What’s not to love about this dish? It’s a savory blend of creamy texture, vibrant spinach, and zesty sun-dried tomatoes, cooked in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal when you’re pressed for time, this savory spaghetti dish truly delivers!
Key Ingredients for Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (and more for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but do not let it brown.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they soften a bit.
- Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer.
- Toss in Spinach: Add fresh spinach, salt, and pepper, cooking until the spinach wilts down (about 2-3 minutes).
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat it well in the luscious cream sauce. Serve hot and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
What to Serve with Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Pair your lovely pasta dish with a crisp salad, perhaps a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the creamy sauce. A side of garlic bread couldn’t hurt either! If you’re feeling adventurous, a chilled glass of sparkling water or lemonade can amplify your dining experience. Variety is the spice of life, right?
Top Tips for Perfecting Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Substitutions: Feel free to swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option.
- Timing: Keep an eye on the spinach to ensure you don’t overcook it; it should be vibrant and tender.
- Common Mistakes: Don’t forget to season your pasta water! It’s the first chance to add flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; just be sure to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Now that you have all the secrets to create this Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and start cooking! Your family will adore this dish, and your kitchen will smell wonderful.
Savory Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup pasta water.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook 2–3 minutes.
- Make the cream sauce:
- Add heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add spinach and pasta:
- Add fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes).
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
