Long day? This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach is your answer. It’s a luxurious, velvety dish bursting with the bold flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh garlic, and tender spinach. With a rich cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this meal feels restaurant-worthy—but it comes together in just 30 minutes. Great for vegetarians, and easy to customize if you want to add protein.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
8 oz (225g) penne or your favorite pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and sliced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
3 cups baby spinach
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Optional: grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes if using.
Build the Sauce
: Stir in vegetable broth and simmer for 2 minutes. Add cream and Parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add Spinach and Pasta
: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Season and Serve
: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Plate and garnish with fresh herbs. Add optional protein if desired.
Tips for Success
Cream Options: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or plant-based cream for a lighter version.
Make It Spicier: Amp up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Spinach Switch: Kale or arugula makes a great substitute if spinach isn’t your thing.
Storage Tip: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is the definition of cozy-meets-luxury. The tomatoes bring a sweet tang, the garlic infuses every bite, and the cream sauce ties it all together in pure silkiness. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just yourself, this is the kind of dish that makes any night feel special.