Description
Indulge in the flavors of Tuscany with this rich and creamy Tuscan Pasta recipe. Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese come together in a decadent sauce that coats every strand of pasta. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until softened. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cream: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For added protein, consider stirring in grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
- To lighten the dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- This recipe is also delicious with gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg