This spaghetti dish is full of flavors! Creamy sun-dried tomato sauce perfectly coats the noodles, while fresh spinach adds a nice touch of color and nutrition.
It’s a fun way to enjoy pasta, and I love how quick it is to whip up on busy evenings. Pair it with garlic bread for an extra treat—you’ll be coming back for seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works well, but you could use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. I often switch it up with linguine for a bit of variety in texture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and healthy element to the dish. If it’s not available, try using kale or frozen spinach. Just remember to thaw and drain any excess water from frozen spinach!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, you can substitute with roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes tossed in olive oil. The flavor will change, but it’ll still be tasty!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you’re dairy-free. I’ve used coconut cream before, and it gives a unique twist to the flavor that I really enjoy!
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan is delicious, Pecorino Romano can be a sharper alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace cheese for a vegan version, giving a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Can I Make Sure the Sauce is the Right Consistency?
Getting the right sauce consistency is key for a good pasta dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect creamy texture.
- Start with medium heat and bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer, stirring often. This lets it thicken without burning.
- As soon as you add the Parmesan, keep stirring until it’s melted completely. This step helps create a cohesive sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water little by little. It’s starchy and will help achieve your desired consistency!
- Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning. A little salt can enhance all those delicious flavors!
How to Make Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish comes together in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the spaghetti and sauce, making it a quick and tasty meal for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt, and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—nobody likes burnt garlic!
3. Add the Sun-dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will bring out their flavor and aroma, adding a delicious punch to the sauce.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir the mixture frequently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. You’re creating that creamy goodness that will coat the pasta perfectly!
5. Combine the Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it into the sauce until it melts and combines smoothly. Season with salt and pepper to taste; this is your moment to make it just right!
6. Add the Spinach:
Gently fold in the fresh spinach. Cook it just until it wilts, which will only take a minute or two. This will add a beautiful color and extra nutrients to your dish.
7. Toss in the Spaghetti:
Add the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, drizzle in a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water until it reaches your desired consistency.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to dig in! Serve the spaghetti immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Spaghetti Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative that adds more fiber to your meal. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as whole wheat pasta may require slightly different cooking times for the perfect al dente texture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it up. Alternatively, canned coconut milk can provide a rich, creamy texture if you’re keeping it dairy-free, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. This helps revive the sauce while keeping it creamy!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all be delicious options. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the sun-dried tomatoes to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
