Dreamy Spaghetti Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

My kitchen adventures with spaghetti spinach sun dried tomato cream sauce always spark excitement among pasta enthusiasts.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with vibrant green leaves and tangy Mediterranean ingredients.

Hearty strands of pasta catch every delectable droplet of this luxurious sauce.

Nutritious spinach adds remarkable depth to each carefully crafted bite.

Simple ingredients dance together, creating a memorable culinary experience that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Fresh herbs could enhance the overall flavor profile, making each serving a delightful surprise.

Savor this delectable combination that promises to impress even the most discerning palate.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients that make this spaghetti dish unique?

Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese create a rich, tangy flavor profile that sets this pasta apart from traditional cream sauce recipes.

• Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. It uses vegetable broth and doesn’t include any meat ingredients, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole-wheat spaghetti for added fiber, reduce the amount of butter, and opt for low-fat sour cream to create a lighter version of the recipe.

• Can I substitute any ingredients if I don't have them on hand?

You can replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and swap Parmesan with another hard cheese like pecorino.

Spaghetti with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Savory Qualities

• Quick and Simple Cooking: Whip up a delicious meal in just a few easy steps with minimal kitchen skills required.
• Packed with Nutrition: Combine whole-wheat pasta, nutrient-rich spinach, and protein-packed Parmesan for a balanced, wholesome dish.
• Flavor Explosion: Blend sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes to create a creamy, tangy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, a casual date night, or a satisfying lunch that impresses without complicated techniques.

Ingredients List for Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach Pasta

• Whole-Wheat Spaghetti: A hearty and nutritious pasta that provides a robust foundation for the dish.

• Sour Cream: Adds rich creaminess and tangy flavor to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, nutty depth to enhance the overall taste of the recipe.
• Butter: Creates a smooth and luxurious texture in the sauce.

• Spinach: Offers a fresh, green element with nutrients and a mild earthy flavor.
• Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Delivers an intense, concentrated tomato flavor with a chewy texture.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic note to the dish.

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a spicy kick to the sauce.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Broth: Creates a liquid base for simmering and developing the sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Oil: Adds extra flavor from the tomato preservation liquid.
• Lemon Juice (Optional): Provides a bright, citrusy accent to the finished dish.
• Herbs (Optional): Offers a fresh, aromatic garnish to complete the meal.

Steps to Prepare Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Spinach

Grab a colander and add fresh spinach leaves.

The heat from the cooking process will naturally wilt the greens, creating a tender and vibrant base for your pasta dish.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.

Drop in whole-wheat spaghetti and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

When done, drain the pasta directly over the spinach in the colander, allowing the hot water to gently wilt the leaves.

Step 3: Sizzle Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Grab a skillet and warm up the reserved oil from your sun-dried tomatoes.

• Diced onions
• Chopped sun-dried tomatoes

Sauté these ingredients until they become fragrant and slightly golden, releasing their rich, concentrated flavors.

Step 4: Boost Flavor Profile

• Minced garlic
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper

Let these ingredients dance in the skillet for a minute, creating a robust flavor foundation.

Step 5: Create Liquid Base

Pour broth into the skillet, allowing it to simmer and reduce by half.

This concentrates the flavors and creates a delicious liquid foundation for your sauce.

Step 6: Craft Creamy Sauce

• Sour cream
• Grated Parmesan
• Butter

Blend until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, with a rich, tantalizing texture.

Step 7: Marry Pasta and Sauce

Add the wilted spinach and cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet.

Gently toss everything together, ensuring each strand of pasta gets coated in the luscious sauce.

Step 8: Final Flourish

Plate your pasta while it’s steaming hot.

Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.

For an extra zing, add a splash of fresh lemon juice or scatter some chopped herbs on top.

Tips for Silky, Creamy Pasta Sauce Success

• Use the pasta water to wilt spinach, saving time and reducing dirty dishes while preserving nutrients.
• Adjust red pepper flakes and Parmesan to control spiciness and saltiness according to personal taste preferences.
• Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring a silky smooth consistency.
• Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a protein-rich, lighter version of the cream sauce.
• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, gently reheating with a splash of broth to restore sauce's creamy texture.

Pasta Recipe Variations for More Flavor

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace whole-wheat spaghetti with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour for a celiac-friendly meal.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap sour cream and Parmesan with cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and plant-based butter to create a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a lighter, vegetable-based dish that cuts down on carbohydrates.
• Protein-Packed Variation: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the sauce for extra protein and a more substantial meal.

Best Ways to Serve Spinach Tomato Cream Pasta

• Pasta Night Delight: Cozy up with this comforting spaghetti dish perfect for family dinners or romantic evenings.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Complement the creamy sauce with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc to balance rich flavors.
• Fresh Herbal Touch: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil, parsley, or chives on top for a burst of color and bright, aromatic notes that elevate the entire dish.
• Side Dish Companions: Serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that feels both elegant and homey.

Storing Leftover Spinach and Tomato Pasta Sauce

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the pasta fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled spaghetti to freezer-safe containers, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn, and store for up to 2 months.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding splash of broth or water to restore moisture and prevent sticking, stirring gently until heated thoroughly.

Spaghetti Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy spaghetti with spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce delivers Italian comfort straight to your kitchen. Silky pasta mingles with tangy tomatoes and earthy greens, promising a luxurious meal you’ll savor with every delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) whole-wheat spaghetti
• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy and Finishing Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter

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Instructions

1. Position a colander in the sink and spread spinach inside to prepare for wilting.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook whole-wheat spaghetti for 8-10 minutes until perfectly al dente.
3. Drain pasta directly over spinach in the colander, allowing hot water to naturally wilt the greens.
4. Heat reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat, creating a fragrant cooking base.
5. Sauté chopped onions and sun-dried tomatoes for approximately 3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
6. Introduce minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet, stirring continuously for 1 minute to release aromatic flavors.
7. Pour broth into the skillet, reducing heat and allowing liquid to simmer until volume decreases by half.
8. Whisk sour cream, grated Parmesan, and butter into the reduced broth, creating a smooth, velvety cream sauce.
9. Transfer wilted spinach and drained spaghetti into the skillet, gently tossing to ensure even sauce distribution.
10. Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or chopped herbs for enhanced flavor complexity.

Notes

• Preserve the vibrant green color of spinach by quickly wilting it under hot pasta water, which prevents overcooking and maintains nutrients.
• Try different pasta varieties like whole wheat, gluten-free, or zucchini noodles to accommodate dietary preferences and add unique textures.
• Balance the richness of the cream sauce by using low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt, which provides tangy flavor without excessive calories.
• Create a vegan version by substituting dairy ingredients with cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and plant-based butter for a similarly creamy and satisfying dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 353 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 238 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 33 mg