Ready in just 20 minutes, this pasta tastes like it’s been simmering for hours!
This quick and flavorful sun-dried tomato pasta uses the oil from your sun-dried tomatoes to create a rich, creamy sauce. The residual heat from the pasta gently wilts fresh spinach, making this a perfect weeknight dinner that’s fast, healthy, and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Done from start to finish in just 20 minutes.
- Healthy & Nutrient-Packed: Whole-wheat spaghetti adds fiber, protein, and antioxidants, while spinach provides vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile: Swap in your favorite pasta or plant-based alternatives to suit your taste.
- Flavorful: The tangy sour cream and Parmesan melt into the sun-dried tomato base for a creamy, savory sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
Ingredients (4 servings)
- 5 oz baby spinach, coarsely chopped
- 8 oz whole-wheat spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar
- ½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- ½ cup onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Wilt the Spinach While Cooking Pasta
Place the chopped spinach in a large colander in the sink. Boil a large pot of water and cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain the pasta over the spinach and toss to wilt.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Meanwhile, heat the sun-dried tomatoes and their oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper; cook for another minute.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the broth. Simmer, stirring, until the liquid reduces by half, about 2 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in sour cream, Parmesan, and butter until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Pasta, Spinach & Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti and wilted spinach to the sauce. Toss well to coat every strand in the creamy sun-dried tomato goodness. Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
- Pasta Options: Use spaghetti, penne, or a mix of whole-wheat and regular pasta for lighter flavor.
- Vegetarian Swap: Use vegetable broth and plant-based Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients.
- Flavor Boost: Reserve some sun-dried tomato oil to drizzle over the finished pasta for extra richness.
Why This Pasta Is So Healthy
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, and heart-healthy lycopene.
- Whole-Wheat Pasta: High in fiber and protein, helps support heart health and satiety.
- Spinach: Nutrient-dense, high in folate, vitamin K, and other essential minerals.
Prep & Cook Time
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is quick enough for weeknights but decadent enough to feel like a special meal. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy solo dinner.
Leave a Comment