If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful pasta dish that’s easy to whip up, this Creamy Garlic Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect recipe. It combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy sauce infused with the bold flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. The addition of Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs like basil and oregano takes this dish to the next level. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal quick meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
• 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your preferred type)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente for the best texture. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Prepare the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to release their flavor into the oil.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, until it’s smooth and slightly thickened—this should take around 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Spinach: Toss the fresh spinach into the skillet and cook until it wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The spinach adds a vibrant color and a nutritional boost to the dish.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it well to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
6. Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnishing with freshly chopped basil for an extra layer of fresh flavor and a pop of color.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Kcal per serving: 550 kcal
Tips
• Pasta Choice: While this recipe calls for fettuccine or penne, you can use any pasta you prefer. For a heartier dish, try using rigatoni or even whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
• Add Protein: If you want to make this a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: If your sun-dried tomatoes come packed in oil, you can use some of the oil from the jar for sautéing the garlic, adding even more flavor to the dish.
Benefits
• Nutrient-Rich Spinach: Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with iron, calcium, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. It adds a healthy, fresh element to the creamy pasta.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil and sun-dried tomatoes are great sources of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health.
• Quick and Satisfying: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet indulgent.
• Versatile: The creamy garlic pasta can be adapted in so many ways to fit different dietary needs or taste preferences. Whether you want to add extra vegetables or protein, the recipe is versatile enough to accommodate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce, as excess water can thin out the creamy sauce.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are many excellent gluten-free pasta options available, including those made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment by adding vegetables like mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half if you prefer a lighter sauce. Keep in mind the sauce will be less rich, but it will still be delicious.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for pasta lovers. The combination of creamy sauce, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and nutrient-packed spinach makes it both indulgent and nutritious. Ready in just 25 minutes, this pasta is ideal for a quick dinner, and with a few modifications, it can suit various dietary needs. Try this recipe the next time you’re craving something comforting and delicious!
