Print

Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Print Recipe

Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, quick, and delicious meal combining tender spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy-to-make dish offers fresh and satisfying flavors, packed with nutrients, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. It is versatile, nutritious, and customizable to suit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta

Vegetables

  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (preferably oil-packed, julienne cut)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Other

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  2. Prep the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic: While the pasta cooks, finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes and mince the garlic cloves to prepare for sautéing.
  3. Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and garlic turns golden.
  4. Add spinach and cook until wilted: Stir in fresh spinach and cook just until wilted and tender, preserving its bright green color and nutrients.
  5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine everything. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
  6. Finish with Parmesan and seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well and adjust seasonings to taste.

Notes

  • Use high-quality oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for better texture and flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking spinach to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
  • Reserve pasta water to enhance sauce creaminess without extra fat.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated for better melt and taste.
  • Cook garlic gently to prevent burning and keep a mellow aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach pasta, sun-dried tomato pasta, quick pasta recipe, healthy pasta, vegetarian pasta, gluten-free pasta option

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/spinach-and-sun-dried-tomato-pasta/