Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

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Introduction
This creamy spaghetti dish combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the rich tang of sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious cream sauce. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes)

For the Cream Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1/3 cup (40 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spinach:

  • 3 cups (90 g) fresh spinach
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of salt

Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Additional Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and a pinch of salt, cooking until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  2. Gently fold in the sautéed spinach until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large dish.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Tips:

  • For added protein, toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
  • Use a splash of white wine instead of some of the stock for extra depth of flavor.
  • Swap sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a milder, sweeter flavor.

This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is creamy, indulgent, and bursting with flavor.

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