Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach

© Original Recipe By The Wonder Whisk ©

🍝🌞 Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach – A Flavorful & Easy Pasta Delight

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s bursting with rich, aromatic flavors, then this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach is exactly what you need. The sun-dried tomatoes lend a savory, slightly sweet tang, perfectly balanced by the creamy sauce and tender spinach. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also offers a delightful combination of textures and colors that make every bite a feast for the senses. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this Creamy Pasta with Spinach recipe will impress your taste buds and nourish your soul.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy evenings when you want a comforting meal fast.
• One-pan wonder — minimizes cleaning and maximizes flavor.
• Rich, savory flavor from sun-dried tomatoes paired with fresh spinach and a creamy sauce.
• Versatile — easily adaptable for vegetarian or vegan preferences by swapping ingredients.

3. Ingredient Notes

When selecting ingredients for this dish, opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes to ensure maximum flavor. Look for in oil or dried — the oil-packed version often has a richer taste. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green and subtle bitterness that balances the richness of the sauce; select crisp, fresh leaves. For the cream, you can use heavy cream for a luxurious texture or substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Parmesan cheese enhances the overall savory profile, but nutritional yeast works well for a vegan twist. Fresh garlic and aromatic herbs like basil or oregano elevate the dish with fragrant complexity.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this beautiful Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, having the right tools makes all the difference. A good Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer can be used to prep ingredients quickly if you want to toast or roast some toppings. For stovetop cooking, a reliable T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even heat distribution and easy cleanup. And for mixing and serving, a sleek KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer can help with any sauce preparations or doughs you might want to add in future recipes.

5. How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach

Boil and cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente — tender yet with a slight bite. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water will help loosen the sauce later, creating a silky consistency. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the sauce

In a large skillet, warm a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant — about 30 seconds — until it’s aromatic and slightly golden. Then, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing their sweet, concentrated flavor to infuse the oil. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Toss in grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for added depth and flavor. If needed, thin the sauce with a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.

Add the spinach

Once the sauce is smooth and luscious, incorporate fresh spinach. Stir continuously as the spinach wilts and reduces in volume, turning a vibrant emerald green. The aroma of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce fills the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around.

Combine pasta and serve

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet, tossing gently to coat every strand with the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil. The pasta should be hot, flavorful, and beautifully coated with a silky, sun-dried tomato-rich sauce.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Use the pasta water — it’s the secret to achieving a glossy, cohesive sauce that clings perfectly to the noodles.
• Don’t overcook the spinach — wilt it just until it’s tender to preserve its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Adjust the acidity — a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten the flavors if desired.
• Store leftovers properly — keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.

7. Variations & Substitutions

For a vegan option, replace cream with coconut cream or cashew sauce, and skip cheese or use vegan alternatives. Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness. Incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a zestier taste, sprinkle with red pepper flakes during cooking.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. For best results, avoid microwaving directly, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

9. FAQ

Can I use fresh sun-dried tomatoes instead of the packaged ones?

Fresh sun-dried tomatoes are less common, but if you can find fresh, ripe ones, you might want to roast or rehydrate them before use to intensify their flavor. The flavor intensity will be milder and fresher than store-bought versions.

What pasta shape works best for this dish?

Spaghetti is traditional, but you can also try fettuccine, linguine, or even penne for a different mouthfeel. Long, thin pasta tends to hold the sauce well and feels elegant on the plate.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance and stored separately, then combined with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. This ensures the pasta remains tender and doesn’t absorb too much sauce and become mushy.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely. Swap out the dairy ingredients with coconut cream or nutritional yeast, and ensure your sun-dried tomatoes are oil-packed without added preservatives for a plant-based, creamy delight.

10. Conclusion

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the vibrant, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a quick, nutritious, and irresistibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality pasta right in your own kitchen. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a dinner that’s both satisfying and memorable!

Print