This spaghetti dish is a colorful treat with bright green spinach and tasty sun-dried tomatoes mixed in a smooth cream sauce. It’s quick, delicious, and packed with flavor!
I love how the sun-dried tomatoes add a pop of sweetness. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fancy night in. Just grab a fork and enjoy the creamy goodness! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I like using traditional spaghetti, but you can swap it for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions for different kinds.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream. It will alter the flavor slightly but still create a creamy sauce!
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These give a concentrated flavor. If you can’t find them, roasted red peppers offer a similar tangy sweetness, but adjust the amount to taste since they’re milder.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parm is rich and nutty. If you’re aiming for dairy-free, nutritional yeast can impart a cheesy essence, or try vegan Parmesan cheese.
Fresh Spinach: If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the sauce.
How Can I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic can be tricky; it can burn quickly! Here’s how to ensure you get that perfect golden fragrance without the bitter taste from burnt garlic:
- Heat your skillet at medium heat before adding oil to prevent the garlic from starting to cook too fast.
- Add the minced garlic once the oil is hot, stirring it continuously for about 1 minute.
- If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Remember, garlic finishes cooking even after you turn off the heat, so don’t overdo it!
How Do I Get the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
Getting the right sauce consistency is important. Follow these tips:
- Add the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese gradually to ensure both are well combined.
- Watch the sauce thicken over 2-3 minutes. If it’s too thick, use that reserved pasta water! Start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired texture.
- Mix the sauce with the pasta gently to help it cling, and don’t be afraid to add a little more water as you combine!
How to Make Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
- Optional: Fresh basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spaghetti dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook. So, in less than 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
First, fill a large pot with water and add a good pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then add the spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti. Once drained, set the spaghetti aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute—just long enough for the garlic to become fragrant. Be careful, as garlic burns quickly!
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, letting the tomatoes soften and infuse their flavors into the oil.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir it well with the tomato and garlic mix. Then, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit. If it gets too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water to get the right consistency.
5. Combine with Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to your skillet and stir it in until it wilts down. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt, some freshly ground pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
6. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss it around so the sauce coats every strand. If it seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the spaghetti.
7. Serve:
Dish out the pasta into bowls. If you’d like, sprinkle some more Parmesan cheese on top and add fresh basil for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious spaghetti hot!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Spaghetti Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great option for added fiber. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may require a minute or two more to reach al dente compared to regular spaghetti.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken it. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from getting too thick. Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a delicious twist and added nutrients!
