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Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

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A quick and flavorful pasta dish with al dente spaghetti, fresh spinach, and a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Comforting and customizable, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 12 oz spaghetti (or preferred pasta)
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and trimmed
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion or shallot for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it thickens, stirring frequently.
  6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
  7. Add drained spaghetti and spinach to the skillet. Stir until spinach wilts and pasta is evenly coated in sauce.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
  9. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Notes

  • Use fettuccine, penne, or gluten-free pasta as substitutes.
  • Add proteins like cooked chicken, shrimp, sausage, or tofu for variation.
  • Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt (off heat) for a lighter or tangier sauce.
  • Mix in mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra vegetables.
  • Store sauce separately if preparing ahead to prevent pasta from soaking up too much liquid.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/spaghetti-spinach-with-sun-dried-tomato-cream-sauce/