Indulge in the rich flavors of Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, a perfect weeknight meal that combines fresh sautéed spinach with the savory richness of sun-dried tomatoes. This creamy sauce clings to tender spaghetti, creating a harmonious balance of fresh and tangy flavors. Ready in no time, it’s a delicious way to elevate a simple pasta dish into something special. Ideal for busy evenings or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers a satisfying combination of taste and texture that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
How to use sun-dried tomatoes?
Sauces: Blend 1 or 2 rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes into your favorite sauce or salad dressing to enhance the depth of flavor.
Dips and Spreads: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely chopped rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes into dips or spreads for a boost in texture, or blend them directly with other ingredients to intensify the overall taste.
How do you soften sun-dried tomatoes for pasta?
- Place the sun-dried tomatoes in a heat-safe bowl.
- Pour boiling water over them until fully submerged.
- Let them soak for 30 minutes until they soften and become flexible.
- Drain thoroughly and gently pat dry.
What is the secret to good spaghetti?
To make the best spaghetti, always cook it in salted water. The water should be salty enough to enhance the flavor of the pasta. I typically add about one tablespoon of salt for every four quarts (16 cups) of water, which is ideal for cooking one pound of pasta and ensures a deliciously seasoned result.
How many calories are in spinach spaghetti?
Cooked Spinach Spaghetti Without Salt (1 cup) contains 36.6g total carbs, 36.6g net carbs, 0.9g fat, 6.4g protein, and 182 calories.
What’s the key ingredient that takes spaghetti sauce to the next level?
Using prepared tomato sauce is an excellent time-saver for quick meals. For a simple flavor boost, stir in a tablespoon or two of unsalted butter before serving. This easy one-ingredient addition enhances the richness and depth of the sauce, making it a must-try upgrade.
Is spinach in pasta good?
This dish bursts with brightness and earthy flavors, offering a slightly nutty undertone that makes it irresistibly delicious. This one takes a lighter approach, unlike many pasta recipes that rely heavily on butter or cream-based sauces. A good quality olive oil, combined with a bit of the pasta’s starchy cooking water, creates a smooth and silky sauce that perfectly coats the noodles—without heavy cream. This simple yet effective method enhances the dish’s flavors while keeping it light and satisfying, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine through.
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti (or your preferred type)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped (save some oil for later).
- One small red onion, finely chopped
- Two cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Two tablespoons butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Place the fresh spinach leaves in a colander positioned in the sink.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the spaghetti following the package directions. Drain the pasta directly over the spinach in the colander to wilt the spinach. Set both aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Heat one tablespoon of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sun-dried tomatoes, and sauté for 3 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, and sauté for an additional minute.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Turn the heat to medium-high, add the broth, and cook until the liquid is reduced by half. Stir in the sour cream, Parmesan, and butter, blending until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti and wilted spinach to the sauce. Mix everything thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated. Serve hot and enjoy!
Equipment
A sizeable oven-safe skillet (I recommend cast iron, which seamlessly moves directly from the stovetop or oven to the table).
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Put the fresh spinach leaves in a large colander set in the sink.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. When the pasta is ready, drain it over the spinach in the colander to allow it to wilt. Set both aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sauce
Warm one tablespoon of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sun-dried tomatoes, and cook for about 3 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Raise the heat to medium-high and add the broth. Simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Stir in the sour cream, Parmesan, and butter, blending until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti and wilted spinach to the skillet and mix everything. Gently toss until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
In conclusion
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, offering a perfect balance of savory ingredients and fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal.
This dish offers a harmonious blend of rich, creamy flavors and fresh, wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent option for casual weeknight meals and special occasions. The mixture of sautéed spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti creates a comforting and satisfying meal. The mix of ingredients provides a variety of textures and flavors, creating a gourmet-style dish that doesn’t take hours to prepare. Whether entertaining guests or treating yourself to a cozy dinner at home, this pasta promises to impress with its delightful contrast of rich sauce and vibrant, fresh vegetables. It’s an easy-to-make yet elevated dish with bold and comforting flavors that will leave a lasting impression.
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