Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 12 oz Pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil for sautéing
- 1 cup Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) for added flavor
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced fresh garlic
- 1 cup Heavy cream the key to creaminess
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for ultimate richness
- 2 cups Spinach adds color and nutrition
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- optional Fresh basil for garnish and added freshness
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a pot of salted water, then add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sautéing Aromatics
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!
Building the Sauce
- Incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet, allowing them to infuse their flavor into the oil for about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, around 2-5 minutes.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and combines with the cream, resulting in a luscious sauce.
Combining and Serving
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with fresh spinach. Toss everything together; the heat will wilt the spinach and warm the pasta.
- If the sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste your dish and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Dish up your creamy pasta and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality ingredients. Feel free to experiment with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.