As autumn arrives, a warm, comforting pasta dish is just what you need. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that combines whole-wheat spaghetti, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a vegetarian pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
A bowl of spaghetti topped with vibrant green spinach, surrounded by creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves, served on a rustic wooden table. Natural light highlighting the textures and colors of the dish.
This spaghetti & spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce recipe is a mix of Italian flavors and healthy ingredients. It’s a tasty and simple dinner option for any weeknight. You can make it in just 20 minutes, without losing out on flavor or quality.
Key Takeaways
- Combines whole-wheat spaghetti, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish
- Vegetarian and packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy meal option
- Quick and easy to prepare, with a total time of just 20 minutes
- Creamy sun-dried tomato sauce adds a rich, savory element to the dish
- Versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit personal preferences
Introduction to This Creamy Italian-Inspired Pasta Dish
Get ready for a flavor explosion with our creamy sun-dried tomato pasta dish. It’s a mix of fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy sauce. This versatile and easy dinner idea is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, ready in just 20 minutes.
Health Benefits of Combining Pasta with Spinach
Combining pasta with spinach is a nutritional powerhouse. Spinach is full of vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and calcium. This combo makes for a nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and energizing.
Why Sun-Dried Tomatoes Make This Dish Special
Sun-dried tomatoes bring a special flavor to this creamy pasta sauce. They add a Mediterranean twist with their sweet and tangy taste. Plus, they add a nice texture to the dish, making it a joy to eat.
Quick Overview of Preparation Time and Servings
This spinach pasta recipe is quick and easy, ready in just 20 minutes. It makes about 4 servings, perfect for sharing or leftovers.
Creamy spinach pasta dish topped with sun-dried tomatoes, rich cream sauce, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, served in an elegant bowl on a rustic wooden table, vibrant colors, appetizing textures.
Essential Ingredients for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Making the perfect pasta recipes with creamy sauces means choosing the best ingredients. This dish, with spaghetti, spinach, and sun-dried tomato cream sauce, is a great example. Let’s look at what makes it special.
You’ll start with 5 ounces of fresh baby spinach. It’s packed with nutrients. Then, 8 ounces of whole-wheat spaghetti adds a solid base for the sauce.
The dish’s flavor comes from 1/2 cup of slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. They bring a tangy sweetness and enrich the sauce’s flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Baby Spinach | 5 ounces |
| Whole-Wheat Spaghetti | 8 ounces |
| Oil-Packed Sun-Dried Tomatoes | 1/2 cup, slivered |
| Onion | 1 |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Crushed Red Pepper | To taste |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Low-Sodium Vegetable or Chicken Broth | 1 cup |
| Sour Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 tablespoon |
For extra flavor, use a diced onion, minced garlic, crushed red pepper, and salt and pepper. These ingredients make the sauce even better.
The sauce is made with 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth, 1/2 cup of sour cream, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. A tablespoon of butter adds a rich feel and boosts the flavor.
A vibrant plate of spaghetti twirled elegantly with fresh spinach, richly coated in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, garnished with sprigs of basil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese, set against a rustic wooden table.
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a standout pasta recipes. It combines spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce for a delicious dish.
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make the tasty pasta recipes and easy dinner ideas like Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, you need some basic kitchen tools. The right cookware and utensils are key to a successful dish.
Proper Cookware Selection
You’ll need a large colander to drain the pasta, a big saucepan for boiling, and a skillet for sautéing. The right size and material are crucial for even cooking and handling.
Essential Utensils for Preparation
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring and mixing
- A sharp knife for finely chopping the garlic, shallot, and sun-dried tomatoes
- Measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise ingredient portions
- Whisk to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce
- Ladle to portion the pasta and sauce when serving
Having these kitchen essentials ready will make preparing and cooking the Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce easy. It ensures a delicious and stress-free easy dinner idea.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Get ready for a tasty Italian pasta dish with this simple spaghetti and spinach recipe. It comes with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Start by putting fresh spinach in a colander. Then, cook the spaghetti as the package says, letting the hot water wilt the spinach as you drain it.
In a skillet, warm the sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and sun-dried tomatoes until they’re soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and a bit of salt and pepper, cooking for another minute to let the aroma fill the air.
- Slowly add the vegetable broth, letting it simmer and reduce for 3-4 minutes. This creates a flavorful foundation for the sauce.
- Stir in the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of butter. Keep cooking until the sauce is just right.
- Now, mix the cooked spaghetti and wilted spinach with the sun-dried tomato cream sauce. Toss gently to coat everything well.
This pasta dish is a great way to explore Italian cuisine and is an easy dinner idea for your family. The mix of al dente spaghetti, fresh spinach, and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is perfect. It’s a balance of flavors and textures that will please everyone.
Creating the Perfect Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
The sun-dried tomato cream sauce is the heart of this comforting pasta dish. Begin by simmering the broth until it has reduced by half. This concentrates the flavors and makes the sauce thick when you add the dairy.
Balancing Flavors and Seasonings
The sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes pairs well with savory Parmesan cheese. A pinch of crushed red pepper adds a nice heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as you go. A well-balanced creamy pasta sauce makes this dish stand out.
Tips for Sauce Enhancement
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant to build a robust foundation.
- Finish the sauce with a splash of white wine or sherry for an extra layer of complexity.
- Stir in a handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, indulgent texture.
- If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a bit of reserved pasta cooking water.
Follow these simple tips to make a comfort food masterpiece. The sun-dried tomato cream sauce is the star. But the tender spaghetti, fresh spinach, and Parmesan-laced sauce make it a true delight.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This spinach dishes and vegetarian recipe for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a treat for your taste buds. It’s also packed with nutrients. One serving gives you a mix of essential nutrients.
Each serving has 380 calories, 16g of fat, 51g of carbs, 13g of protein, and 7g of fiber. It’s rich in Vitamin A, giving you 55% of your daily needs. It also has 12% of your daily potassium. The mix of whole-wheat pasta, spinach, and creamy sauce makes it a healthy vegetarian recipe.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 380 | – |
| Total Fat | 16g | – |
| Carbohydrates | 51g | – |
| Protein | 13g | – |
| Fiber | 7g | – |
| Sodium | 330mg | – |
| Vitamin A | 55% | – |
| Potassium | 12% | – |
This spinach dishes is a blend of whole grains, leafy greens, and creamy sauce. It’s a nutritious and filling vegetarian recipe. It’s perfect for a balanced healthy meals diet.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
This vegetarian dishes is very versatile. It can be changed to fit many diets or just to try new tastes. You can make it your own without losing its tasty charm.
Dietary Modifications
For a vegan version, use a creamy cashew mix instead of sour cream and skip the Parmesan. If you can’t have gluten, try gluten-free pasta. It keeps the dish’s cozy feel.
Ingredient Alternatives
- Try kale or arugula instead of spinach for a fresh twist.
- Change the creaminess by adding more sour cream or broth for a lighter sauce.
- Use roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste and texture.
This recipe can be made to fit your taste and diet needs. With a few tweaks, you can enjoy this vegetarian dishes, pasta recipes, and healthy meals just the way you like it.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying this pasta dish doesn’t have to end when the meal is over. You can savor the flavors of this easy dinner ideas for days to come with proper storage and reheating.
To store your leftover pasta dish, just put it in an airtight container. Next, refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This keeps the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and the spinach and pasta fresh.
To reheat the pasta, add a bit of water or broth to the container. Then, heat it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir it gently, so the sauce doesn’t dry out and the dish heats evenly.
For longer storage, freeze the pasta dish. Put it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat it.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Add a splash of water or broth, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. |
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this pasta dish for a long time. It’s a convenient and flavorful recipe for easy dinner ideas.
Conclusion
The Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce recipe is a tasty mix of flavors and nutrients. It’s perfect for a vegetarian meal. It’s quick to make, just one hour, and loved by pasta fans.
The creamy sauce is made with garlic, Parmesan, and spinach. It also has a sweet-tart flavor from sun-dried tomatoes. This spaghetti & spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce recipe is great for a quick dinner or to impress guests.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian recipe that’s tasty and healthy, this is it. It’s easy to make and the sauce can be frozen for later. This recipe is convenient and flexible, offering rich flavors and a nutritious meal.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
It takes 20 minutes to get started and another 20 minutes to finish.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe serves 4 people.
What are the key ingredients in this dish?
You’ll need whole-wheat spaghetti, baby spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for this recipe. Also, onion, garlic, crushed red pepper, broth, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese.
What essential equipment is needed to make this dish?
You need a large colander, a big saucepan, and a skillet. They help cook the pasta, wilt the spinach, and make the sauce.
How do you make the sun-dried tomato cream sauce?
Start by sautéing sun-dried tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Then, add broth, sour cream, Parmesan, and butter. This makes a creamy, tasty sauce.
What are the nutritional benefits of this dish?
One serving has 380 calories, 16g fat, and 51g carbs. It also has 13g protein, 7g fiber, and 330mg sodium. Additionally, it’s packed with Vitamin A and potassium.
Can this dish be made vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, for vegan, use cashew cream instead of sour cream and skip the Parmesan. For gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Creamy Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a spicy kick
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pasta water reserved
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning:
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to the desired consistency.
- Add Spinach:
- Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh basil, additional Parmesan cheese, and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use plant-based cream and Parmesan alternatives, and replace egg-based spaghetti with a vegan pasta variety.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein or variety.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free twist with a subtle sweetness.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp side salad or garlic bread.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.