Description
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a rich Mediterranean-inspired pasta recipe featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a silky Parmesan cream sauce with garlic, Italian herbs, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting vegetarian pasta is perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or elegant family dinners.
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the garlic and red pepper flakes if using, then cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Italian seasoning.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and melted.
Add the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted.
Add the cooked spaghetti and toss until evenly coated.
Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving immediately.
Notes
Cook the pasta just until al dente for the best texture.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Add the reserved pasta water gradually to create a silky sauce.
Avoid boiling the cream vigorously to prevent curdling.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean