Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Introduction:

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a tangy, savory flavor, while the spinach adds freshness and nutrition to the creamy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is a great option for weeknight dinners, special meals, or when you’re craving something rich and flavorful. Serve it with some garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal!

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
• Salt, for the pasta water

For the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or more, depending on preference)

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce:

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release their flavor.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
7. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

3. Add the Spinach:

1. Gradually add the spinach to the sauce, stirring it in until the spinach wilts and becomes tender. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese if necessary.

5. Serve and Garnish:

1. Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Tips for the Best Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce:

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you’re using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, be sure to soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes to rehydrate them before chopping. Alternatively, you can use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Spinach: If you prefer, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
• Creaminess: For a lighter version of this sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may not be as rich.
• Add Protein: For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to the pasta for a heartier meal.
• Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese, substituting with a vegan cheese alternative.

Health Benefits:

• Spinach: A nutrient powerhouse, spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and folate. It also provides iron, calcium, and fiber, promoting overall health and supporting bone health.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, such as lycopene, which help protect the body from cell damage. They also offer a good amount of vitamins A and C, which support immune function.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that provides beneficial monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and promote cardiovascular health.
• Parmesan Cheese: While rich in flavor, Parmesan provides calcium and protein, both of which help support bone health.

Conclusion:

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a wonderful dish that blends rich, creamy flavors with the freshness of spinach and the savory tang of sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s full of flavor and packed with nutrients. Enjoy the perfect balance of creaminess and brightness in every bite!

This recipe is sure to be a family favorite! Let me know if you’d like it in a different format or need further modifications!