This tasty dish combines spaghetti with fresh spinach and a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s simple, filling, and packed with flavor!
Who knew veggies could be so delicious? I love how quick it is to make—just cook the pasta, toss in the spinach, and stir in that creamy goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This recipe calls for regular spaghetti, but any pasta shape you enjoy works fine. Try whole grain spaghetti for a healthier option or gluten-free pasta if you avoid gluten.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I love using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for their rich flavor. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even tomato paste for a different taste.
Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce luscious and creamy. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. Feel free to swap it out with kale or any other leafy green like arugula or Swiss chard for a different twist.
How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Getting the sauce to the right creamy consistency is important for this recipe. Here’s how to nail it:
- After adding the cream, let it simmer to thicken up. Don’t rush it; give it a few minutes!
- Add the Parmesan cheese in small amounts and stir continuously until fully melted. This helps ensure a smooth sauce.
- If it becomes too thick, use that reserved pasta water—just a little at a time—until it reaches your desired creaminess.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a delightful and creamy dish that’s sure to impress family and friends! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Spinach Spaghetti with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 20 minutes to prepare, including cooking the pasta and making the sauce. It’s quick to put together, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (just firm to the bite). When done, drain it and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors really come out.
4. Make it Creamy:
Now it’s time to pour in the heavy cream! Stir well to combine, and let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken up. Yum!
5. Cheese it Up:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to your creamy mixture, stirring continuously until it’s melted and the sauce becomes beautifully creamy. You can add red chili flakes here if you want a little heat!
6. Toss in Spinach:
Throw in the fresh spinach leaves, stirring until they just wilt, which will take about 1-2 minutes. This adds a vibrant color and flavor.
7. Combine it All:
Finally, add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until every strand is well-coated. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the consistency you like.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your spaghetti right away, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious and creamy spinach spaghetti with sun-dried tomatoes! It’s truly a delightful dish!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Spaghetti with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, definitely! Whole wheat spaghetti will add a nice nutty flavor, while gluten-free pasta can be a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Keep in mind that using a non-dairy substitute may slightly alter the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Spaghetti?
Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen up the sauce!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in additional veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions to ensure they’re cooked through before adding the cream.
