Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite spaghetti spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce! It’s this creamy, dreamy dish that never fails to brighten my day. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported to a cozy Italian trattoria, with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes mingling beautifully with fresh spinach. It’s so comforting, yet feels a bit fancy—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I remember the first time I made it; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. The best part? It comes together in just 25 minutes, so you can whip it up even on the busiest days. Get ready to fall in love!
Ingredients for Spaghetti Spinach with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Alright, let’s talk about the fabulous ingredients that come together to create this heavenly dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 200g spaghetti: Go for your favorite type—just make sure it’s nice and al dente!
- 150g fresh spinach: Fresh is the way to go here; it adds that vibrant green color and a lovely texture. Dried spinach just won’t cut it!
- 100g sun-dried tomatoes: I love using the jarred ones packed in oil for extra flavor, but you can use dried ones too—just soak them in hot water for a bit to soften.
- 200ml heavy cream: This is where the creaminess comes from! It makes the sauce rich and indulgent, so don’t skimp on this one.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic gives the dish a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor that you just can’t replicate with powdered garlic.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use good quality olive oil—it really makes a difference in the overall taste of the dish!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season your dish! A little sprinkle of salt and a dash of pepper elevate those flavors beautifully.
There you go! With these simple yet delightful ingredients, you’re all set to create a lovely meal that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Spaghetti Spinach with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! This is where the magic happens, and trust me, it’s super easy! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Cooking the Spaghetti
First things first, let’s get that spaghetti cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—don’t be shy with the salt; it really enhances the pasta’s flavor. Once it’s boiling, add in your 200g spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on it. You want it just right, so taste a strand or two a minute or so before the time is up!
Sautéing the Garlic
While the spaghetti is cooking, grab a skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute—oh, you’ll love the smell! Just wait until it turns golden and fragrant, but be careful not to burn it, or else it’ll taste bitter. We want that lovely, aromatic garlic goodness!
Adding Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Next, it’s time to add in those vibrant flavors! Toss in your 100g sun-dried tomatoes and 150g fresh spinach into the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts down. It’s like watching a beautiful transformation happen right in front of you!
Making the Cream Sauce
Now, for the pièce de résistance: the creamy sauce! Pour in 200ml heavy cream and stir everything together. Let it simmer on low for about 3-4 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. This is the time to season it all up with salt and pepper to taste. I like to sneak in a pinch of each and then taste it—add more if you like, but remember, you can always add more salt, but you can’t take it out!
Combining and Serving
Once your spaghetti is cooked and drained (don’t forget to reserve a bit of that pasta water!), it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce and toss it all together until the pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can always add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Serve it warm, maybe with a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top if you’re feeling extra fancy. Dig in, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, this spaghetti spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is a game changer! Here’s why you’re going to absolutely adore it:
- Quick Prep Time: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes! Perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. You probably already have most of these in your pantry!
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic creates a sauce that’s absolutely to die for. Each bite is a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.
- Vegetarian Delight: This dish is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike! It’s hearty enough to satisfy anyone’s cravings.
- Versatile: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own! Chicken, shrimp, or extra greens can easily be incorporated for a personalized touch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress. It looks beautiful on the plate and tastes even better!
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking and enjoy every delicious moment together!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friends, let’s make sure you nail this spaghetti spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce! Here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by for making this dish absolutely perfect:
- Fresh Is Best: Always opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen. It wilts beautifully and adds a lovely color and flavor to your dish. If you can, get organic—it really makes a difference!
- Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks! You want that perfect al dente texture, so taste it a minute or two before the package time is up. Remember, it will continue cooking a bit when you toss it with the sauce.
- Adjust the Cream: If you want a lighter sauce, feel free to cut back on the heavy cream or substitute half-and-half! You can also add a splash of pasta water to thin it out if needed, which helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
- Customize Your Flavors: Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic for a little heat, or stir in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley right at the end for extra freshness!
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to mix in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for added protein. This dish is super versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
- Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh out of the skillet. If you let it sit too long, it can thicken up, so serve it right away for that creamy goodness!
With these tips in your back pocket, I have no doubt you’ll impress everyone at the table! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Now, before you dig into this delicious spaghetti spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce, I want to chat a bit about nutritional information. Keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The numbers I’m sharing here are typical estimates:
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Fat: 35g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
So, if you’re tracking your intake, just remember to adjust based on your choices and portions. Enjoy every creamy bite without worry—just like I do! Happy cooking and eating!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this spaghetti spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my tried-and-true answers:
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach is ideal for this dish, you can absolutely use frozen spinach in a pinch! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half, or even a combination of milk and sour cream for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the sauce might not be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! This pasta pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian boost. Just cook your protein separately and toss it in with the pasta and sauce at the end!
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if it thickens up!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just cook the spaghetti right before serving to keep that perfect texture!
What’s a good side dish to serve with this?
A simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta. It adds a fresh element and balances out the richness of the dish!
If you have more questions or need further tips, feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you make the most of this delicious recipe!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers from your spaghetti spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce! Trust me, you won’t want to waste a single bite! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly so that it stays just as tasty as when it was freshly made.
First off, let your pasta cool down for a bit after serving. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep out the fridge odors and prevent it from drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it! Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, and it should be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, onto reheating! If you’re warming it up from the fridge, the best way is to use a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or a bit more cream to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from getting too thick. Stir it gently as it heats up, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have it nice and warm again!
If you’re in a hurry, microwaving works too! Just pop your serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this keeps it from drying out), and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bit of this creamy, comforting pasta dish anytime you like. Enjoy!
Print
Spaghetti Spinach with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Magic
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy spaghetti dish with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 150g fresh spinach
- 100g sun-dried tomatoes
- 200ml heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cook until spinach wilts.
- Pour in heavy cream, stir, and let simmer for a few minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine spaghetti with the sauce and toss well.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor.
- Adjust cream quantity based on desired richness.
- Can add grated parmesan on top if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: spaghetti, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream sauce