This delightful pasta dish combines whole-wheat spaghetti with fresh spinach and a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. The oil from the sun-dried tomatoes is utilized to create a flavorful base for the sauce, while the residual heat from the cooked pasta wilts the spinach perfectly.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

5 ounces baby spinach, coarsely chopped
8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, plus 1 tablespoon oil from the jar
½ cup halved and thinly sliced onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Directions

Cook the pasta and prepare spinach: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and return the pasta to the pot. Add the chopped spinach and cover to keep warm.
Prepare the sauce: Meanwhile, heat the reserved 1 tablespoon of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and ground pepper; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the slivered sun-dried tomatoes and broth; bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream and grated Parmesan until combined.
Combine and serve: Pour the sauce over the pasta and spinach in the pot. Add the unsalted butter and toss until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is well combined. Serve immediately.

Nutrients Per serving:

Calories: 400
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 27mg
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 590mg
Potassium: 1,000mg

The Flavors and Inspiration Behind Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a dish that beautifully balances creaminess, tanginess, and a hint of spice. The inspiration behind this recipe comes from the rich and bold flavors of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated umami taste that pairs well with the slight bitterness of spinach, while the creamy sauce ties all the ingredients together harmoniously. This dish is not just about taste, it also embraces the use of wholesome ingredients that make it a nourishing and comforting meal.

Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients

One of the great aspects of this dish is that it doesn’t just taste incredible, it also provides various health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the key ingredients and how they contribute to a balanced diet.

1. Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green that is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron. These nutrients support immune function, skin health, and blood circulation. Additionally, spinach is an excellent source of antioxidants that help fight inflammation in the body.

2. Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its role in promoting heart health and reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases. They also provide a concentrated dose of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.

3. Whole-Wheat Spaghetti
Unlike traditional white pasta, whole-wheat spaghetti retains its natural fiber content, which aids digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. It also provides a good amount of protein, making it a filling option for those looking to sustain their energy levels throughout the day.

4. Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese contributes a rich umami flavor to the dish while also being a great source of calcium and protein. Since it’s aged, it’s easier to digest compared to other dairy products, making it a suitable option for those with mild lactose sensitivities.

5. Garlic and Onion
Both garlic and onion bring depth to the dish while also offering health benefits. Garlic is well-known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, supporting the immune system. Onions contain antioxidants and compounds that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

This dish is a fantastic option for busy individuals or families looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal. It takes around 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it a great weeknight dinner option. Another great advantage of this meal is that it doesn’t require any complicated or hard-to-find ingredients. Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example:

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add extra crushed red pepper flakes.
For added protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be included.
If you want a lighter version, you can swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt.
A dairy-free version can be made by using a plant-based cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

While this pasta dish is satisfying on its own, pairing it with complementary sides and beverages can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs well with creamy pasta, offering a crispy texture and buttery, garlicky goodness.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant can complement the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with balsamic vinaigrette can add freshness and balance to the meal.

2. Drinks

White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy texture of the pasta.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator and makes for an easy meal the next day. To keep the pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container and consume it within 2-3 days.

When reheating, follow these steps:

Stovetop: Add the pasta to a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to prevent it from drying out. Stir gently until warmed through.
Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a bit of water or broth, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are some variations you can experiment with:

1. Protein-Packed Version

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to increase the protein content.
Stir in crispy bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory twist.

2. Extra Veggies

Toss in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.
Add zucchini noodles to create a lower-carb option.

3. Spicy Kick

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor.
Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili oil to bring out more heat.

4. Creamy Dairy-Free Option

Substitute the sour cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Use vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a plant-based version.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a dish that effortlessly combines rich, creamy textures with vibrant, wholesome ingredients. Its Mediterranean-inspired flavors make it an excellent choice for those who love bold, savory meals. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers flexibility in customization, making it suitable for different dietary preferences.

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Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce