Description
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring spaghetti tossed in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce with fresh spinach. This vegetarian main course is enriched with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, making it a comforting and delicious meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Salt (for boiling water)
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and tomatoes to soften.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir well to incorporate the spinach into the sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sun-dried tomato cream sauce and spinach.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms to increase protein content.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle spicy kick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and smooth sauce consistency.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
