© Original recipe by The Spoon Studio ©
🍝✨ Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach: An Irresistible Flavor Fusion
1. Introduction
Imagine savoring a bowl of creamy sun-dried tomato pasta that combines the rich, aromatic flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with a luscious, velvety sauce. This dish, also known as Spinach Pasta with Cream Sauce, is a perfect blend of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet elements. The creamy texture coats each strand of perfectly cooked spaghetti, making every bite a comforting yet sophisticated experience. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice foodie, this recipe offers an elegant way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
- One-pan comfort — minimal cleanup with maximum taste.
- Nutritious — packed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for added health benefits.
- Customizable — add protein or switch up ingredients to suit your preferences.
3. Ingredient Notes
High-quality ingredients elevate this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta from ordinary to extraordinary. I recommend using premium sun-dried tomatoes that are packed in oil for a richer, more concentrated flavor. Fresh garlic and good-quality olive oil build the aromatic base, while fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients. For the cream sauce, using heavy cream or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream will give you that luxurious texture. For pasta, choose a high-quality spaghetti made from durum wheat for a firm, al dente bite.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To make this dish seamlessly, I recommend having the right tools. A Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer can be useful for prepping ingredients quickly or reheating leftovers with ease. A durable T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your pasta won’t stick and makes stirring a breeze. If you’re passionate about baking or roasting, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo can be an all-in-one addition to your kitchen arsenal.
5. How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach
Prepare the ingredients
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. As it heats, finely chop 3-4 cloves of garlic and drain a cup of sun-dried tomatoes, reserving a bit of the oil from the jar for cooking. Rinse and roughly chop a handful of fresh spinach leaves for a vibrant green touch.
Cook the pasta
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, saving some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Make the sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute — your kitchen will fill with a warm, aromatic scent. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream or coconut cream, stirring gently until it thickens slightly. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess.
Add the spinach
Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. The vibrant green will pop against the creamy backdrop, making this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired, adding it at the end for a cheesy finishing touch.
- For an extra layer of flavor, sauté a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings—salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the overall dish.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with cashew cream or almond milk thickened with a bit of nutritional yeast.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you’re looking to tweak this recipe:
- Swap the spinach for kale or arugula for a different leafy green.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you’re gluten intolerant.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes during sautéing.
8. Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens upon cooling, stir in a splash of warm water or cream during reheating to restore its luscious consistency.
9. FAQ
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based sauce, and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for cheesiness.
How do I enhance the flavor of sun-dried tomatoes?
Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil; reserve some of the flavorful oil for cooking to deepen the taste profile.
What type of pasta works best?
Stick to traditional spaghetti, but rotini or penne can work well too, soaking up the sauce beautifully.
Can I add protein?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu make excellent additions to turn this into a complete meal.
10. Conclusion
This Creme Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach is the perfect dish to elevate your weeknight menu with minimal effort but maximum flavor. The vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and tender spinach, enveloped in a creamy sauce, create a symphony of textures and tastes. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy a delicious, comforting pasta that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Print
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach
A flavorful pasta dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and cream sauce, tossed together for a rich and satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir well to combine.
- Add cooked spaghetti and fresh spinach; toss until spinach wilts and sauce is heated through.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- Mixed grated mozzarella or basil can be added for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Fifty-three grams
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg