Easy Creamy Linguine with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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The aroma of garlic mingling with the rich creaminess of this dish will have your taste buds dancing in delight. Picture twirling strands of linguine wrapped around vibrant green spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes—it’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day.

Creamy Linguine Dish

I remember the first time I made this creamy linguine with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes; my family literally licked their plates clean. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy linguine is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The flavor profile combines rich creaminess with the brightness of fresh vegetables.
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Versatile enough to pair well with grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein kick.

The first time I served this dish at family dinner, the compliments flowed like the sauce itself!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Linguine Pasta: Choose fresh or dried linguine based on your schedule; both work wonderfully.
  • Fresh Spinach: Always opt for vibrant green leaves; they add color and nutrients.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packaged in oil or dry; either will infuse rich flavor into your dish.
  • Heavy Cream: For that luscious sauce; avoid low-fat versions for best results.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch; minced finely for maximum flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds depth; freshly grated is always better than pre-grated options.
  • Olive Oil: A splash enhances flavors and helps sauté ingredients perfectly.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors in the dish.
  • Fresh Basil (optional): Adds a fragrant touch if you want to get fancy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cooking Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.

Sautéing Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, drizzle olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Adding Spinach and Tomatoes: Toss in fresh spinach along with chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir occasionally until the spinach wilts down—this should take about 3-4 minutes.

Creating the Sauce: Reduce heat slightly, then pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combining Pasta with Sauce: Once the cream sauce has thickened, add cooked linguine directly into the skillet. Toss everything together until each strand is beautifully coated—this feels like magic!

Finishing Touches: Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh basil for that Instagram-worthy finish!

Enjoy every bite of your creamy linguine while basking in the compliments—you deserve it!

You Must Know

  • Using fresh spinach enhances the flavor and texture, making your creamy linguine vibrant.
  • Always check the sun-dried tomatoes’ oil for optimal flavor.
  • Don’t skimp on seasoning; a pinch of salt can elevate this dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta first, then sauté garlic and spinach in olive oil. Add sun-dried tomatoes to infuse flavor, followed by cream to create that luscious sauce. Toss everything with the pasta for perfect harmony.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different green. You can also spice things up with crushed red pepper flakes or add grilled chicken for extra protein. The sky’s the limit!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess while warming it gently on the stove.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use high-quality pasta; it makes a noticeable difference in texture and taste.
  • When sautéing vegetables, let them get slightly caramelized for depth of flavor.
  • Adjust cream quantity based on desired richness—more cream equals more indulgence!

The first time I made creamy linguine with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, my friends couldn’t believe how delicious it was! Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rockstar.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in your dish.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Substitute cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for added flavor.

What other ingredients can I add to this creamy linguine?

Consider adding grilled shrimp, artichoke hearts, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

 

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Creamy Linguine with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Creamy Linguine Dish

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Creamy Linguine with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with vibrant greens and tangy tomatoes for an easy weeknight meal.

  • Author: Sophie
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz linguine pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown (1-2 minutes).
  3. Add fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; stir until spinach wilts down (3-4 minutes).
  4. Reduce heat slightly, pour in heavy cream, and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet, mixing well to coat each strand with the creamy sauce.
  6. Serve topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp.
  •  Substitute frozen spinach if necessary; just be sure to thaw and drain well.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 49g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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