Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of spaghetti, especially when it’s paired with a rich and creamy sauce. My family recently tried this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of the tangy sun-dried tomatoes with the creamy texture of the sauce creates a delightful flavor explosion. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy evenings. Everyone at the table raved about it, and the best part is how easy it is to prepare!

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine with Spaghetti: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated.
6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil before serving warm.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 520 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• As a main course: Serve the spaghetti as a hearty main dish for dinner.
• With garlic bread: Pair with garlic bread for a delightful combination.
• With a side salad: Complement the meal with a fresh green salad.
• Garnished: Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• With protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

Additional Tips

1. Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes: They enhance the flavor significantly.
2. Adjust creaminess: For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth.
3. Fresh spinach: You can use kale if you prefer; just chop it smaller for easier cooking.
4. Pasta water: Reserve some pasta water before draining; you can use it to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Make it ahead: This dish is great for meal prep; simply reheat before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Pesto Spinach Variation: Add a few tablespoons of pesto for a fresh twist on flavor.
• Mushroom Add-In: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic and tomatoes for added texture.
• Vegan Option: Use cashew cream or coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for cheese flavor.
• Different Greens: Substitute spinach with arugula or Swiss chard for a unique taste.
• Seafood Delight: Incorporate shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation.

Serving Suggestions

• For a family dinner: This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal.
• At a potluck: Bring this to a potluck for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• For date night: Impress your loved one with this creamy pasta dish.
• In lunchboxes: Pack leftovers for a delicious lunch the next day.
• With wine: Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio for an elegant dining experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container, and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back creaminess.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free spaghetti works well in this recipe.

Q2: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
While sun-dried tomatoes provide a unique flavor, you can substitute canned diced tomatoes, but you may need to adjust the seasoning.

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.

Q4: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and increase the vegetables for a vegetarian dish.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q6: Is there a way to lighten the dish?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

Q7: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator; just reheat before serving.

Q8: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Q9: How do I ensure the sauce is not too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of reserved pasta water or broth to loosen it up.

Q10: Can I add protein to the recipe?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cooked sausage can be added for extra protein.

Conclusion
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a versatile and delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and nutritious ingredients, it makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy each bite and the wonderful aroma it brings to your kitchen!

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