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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Linguine

Emily

Introduction

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Linguine is a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors with a touch of brightness from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. This dish is ideal for weeknights when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare. The creamy sauce clings to the linguine, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a slightly tangy and robust flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s a versatile meal that’s not only a great vegetarian option but also pairs wonderfully with additional proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes for an al dente texture. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set both aside for later use.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar for added flavor) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. After the garlic becomes fragrant, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their oils into the dish.

Step 3: Add the Cream & Seasonings
Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to blend it with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, salt, pepper to taste, 1 teaspoon of paprika for color (if using), and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. The cream will take on the flavors of the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a luscious base for the dish.

Step 4: Add Spinach
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and softens. The spinach adds a fresh, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the cream sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the creamy sun-dried tomato and spinach sauce. Toss the pasta thoroughly to ensure each strand is coated in the sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick, stirring as you go. Finally, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and continue to mix until the cheese melts, creating a silky, creamy sauce that envelopes the pasta.

COOKING Note

To enhance the flavor of the dish, using the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar adds a rich, tomato-infused layer to the base of the sauce. If you prefer a more tangy and intense flavor, opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil rather than those dried without oil.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Linguine is a complete dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few complementary sides:

For a special occasion, pair this pasta with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, which complements the creamy richness of the sauce without overwhelming the palate.

Tips

  1. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a mild dish, omit the red pepper flakes. If you like more heat, increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  2. Thinning the Sauce: If your sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out. This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta without diluting the flavor.
  3. Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the linguine for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
  4. Add More Veggies: For an added nutritional boost, consider adding sliced mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the sauce.
  5. Leftovers: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Linguine is the perfect choice when you’re craving something rich and satisfying. Its simple preparation and bold flavors make it a great weeknight dinner, but it’s equally fit for a dinner party where you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Whether you’re a fan of sun-dried tomatoes or just looking for a quick and creamy pasta dish, this recipe delivers on all fronts—flavor, texture, and presentation.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While linguine is great for holding onto creamy sauces, you can substitute it with fettuccine, penne, or any other pasta you prefer.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I add meat or other proteins to the dish?
A: Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits would complement the flavors of the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.

Q: Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream?
A: You can use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative, but be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!

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