Catch the waft of garlic mingling with the buttery aroma as you prepare your plate of creamy linguine with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds while giving you a warm embrace of comfort food.
Remember that Sunday dinner when your whole family gathered around the table, laughing and sharing stories? Imagine serving this delightful creamy linguine then. The vibrant colors of green spinach and red sun-dried tomatoes make it not just tasty but also visually appealing. It’s the perfect dish to impress your guests or simply indulge in a cozy night at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This luscious creamy linguine offers ease of preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile combines the richness of cream with zesty sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful experience
- The vibrant hues make this dish not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes
- Versatile enough to customize with seasonal veggies or proteins, it’s bound to be a favorite!
I still remember that time my friend tried this recipe at a get-together. His eyes lit up after the first bite; it’s safe to say he became our household chef after that!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Linguine: Use high-quality fresh linguine for a delightful texture that perfectly holds the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Choose full-fat cream for that rich flavor that makes every bite indulgent.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition; make sure it’s bright green and crisp.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for enhanced flavor; they bring a sweet tanginess to the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; minced garlic adds an aromatic base to the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan elevates the creaminess; use freshly grated cheese for optimal melt-ability.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and complements the richness.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to your preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook Your Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add fresh linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes.
Sauté Garlic & Spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then toss in fresh spinach until wilted.
Add Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce creating that luxurious texture.
Toss in Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the pan. Stir well until they’re evenly distributed throughout your creamy mixture.
Mix Pasta & Sauce Together: Drain cooked linguine (reserve some pasta water) and add it straight into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
Season & Serve!: Taste your creation and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately on warm plates garnished with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy!
This creamy linguine pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread—perfect for soaking up those irresistible flavors left on your plate!
You Must Know
- This delightful creamy linguine with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes offers a burst of flavors
- It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners and impressing guests
- The vibrant colors and aromas will surely elevate any table setting
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, cook the pasta first while preparing the sauce simultaneously to save time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add grilled chicken for extra protein and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use fresh garlic instead of powdered
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key!
- Adding a splash of lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully
Sharing this dish with friends at a cozy dinner party made it an instant favorite, with everyone asking for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use different vegetables in creamy linguine with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! Try adding broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cream alternatives and skip cheese to enjoy a creamy vegan version.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Linguine is ideal, but feel free to substitute with fettuccine or spaghetti if needed.
Creamy Linguine with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Linguine with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful pasta dish that offers a rich, savory experience with fresh ingredients. Perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh linguine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed recommended)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add linguine and cook for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Sauté Garlic & Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add spinach until wilted.
- Add Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and stir constantly. Add Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Mix in Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together with reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Season & Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately on warm plates, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Substitute spinach with kale or add grilled chicken for added protein.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cream alternatives and omit cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg