Spaghetti with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Sauce
Introduction:
This Spaghetti with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Sauce is a rich, flavorful pasta dish that’s easy to make yet tastes like something from a high-end restaurant. The tangy sun-dried tomatoes, combined with fresh spinach and a creamy Parmesan sauce, create a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Serve & Enjoy: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the pasta: Spaghetti should be al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Skipping the pasta water: A splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Adding Parmesan too quickly: If added all at once, Parmesan can clump. Stir it in slowly to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Using low-fat cream: Heavy cream ensures the sauce is rich and velvety. Substituting with low-fat cream may make the sauce too thin.
- Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to balance the flavors.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While spaghetti works great, fettuccine, linguine, or penne also pair well with this creamy sauce.
Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes?
Sun-dried tomatoes have a more concentrated flavor, but you can use fresh tomatoes if needed. Roast them first for a deeper taste.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of butter, though the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Can I make it vegetarian?
This dish is naturally vegetarian, but you can enhance it with mushrooms or other veggies for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion:
This Spaghetti with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Sauce is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s easy to make yet feels indulgent, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Serve it up with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!