Description
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This Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a flavor-packed pasta dish that brings together tender linguine, sautéed spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious garlic cream sauce. It’s cozy, creamy, and easy to make in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy nights or when you want something indulgent yet simple. Serve it as a meatless main or alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients
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12 oz linguine
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2 tbsp olive oil (use oil from sun-dried tomato jar for extra flavor)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), sliced
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3 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add spinach: Stir in spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes for fresh; 3–4 for frozen).
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Make the sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
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For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
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Use half-and-half or a splash of milk instead of cream for a lighter version.
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Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this dish!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg