Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach Recipe

This sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach recipe is a simple yet flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight dinner. It combines the earthy, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes with the fresh, green goodness of baby spinach, tossed with al dente spaghetti, to create a harmonious blend of flavors that's both satisfying and nutritious.

Photos of Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach Recipe

While most of these ingredients can be found in a regular pantry, the sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil may require a special trip to the supermarket. These are usually found in the canned vegetables aisle, or in the international foods section. They add a unique, intense tomato flavor that fresh tomatoes can't provide, and the olive oil they're soaked in also adds an extra dimension to the dish.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach

Spaghetti: This is used as the base of the dish, providing a satisfying, chewy texture.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Required for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the other ingredients.

Sun dried tomatoes in olive oil with herbs: These give the dish a concentrated tomato flavor, with added depth from the olive oil and herbs.

Garlic: Adds a burst of flavor and aroma to the dish.

Baby spinach: This leafy green pairs well with the rich flavors, adding freshness and nutrients.

Basil: Brings a fragrant, peppery flavor that complements the tanginess of the tomatoes.

Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, umami kick. More can be added on top as desired.

Pine nuts: They add a bit of crunch and a subtle, sweet-buttery flavor.

One reader, Hansiain Bahr says:

This sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so easy to make. The sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy taste, and the spinach brings a lovely freshness. It's a must-try for anyone who loves pasta!

Hansiain Bahr

Techniques Required for Making Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta With Spinach

How to cook spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain while reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

How to sauté spinach and sun-dried tomatoes: In a large pot, heat the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Then, add the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, and sauté until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.

How to toss spaghetti with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes: Toss the drained spaghetti into the pot with the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Thin the mixture with pasta water as needed and season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to finish the dish: Toss in the basil and parmesan, then serve warm, topping each serving with pine nuts and additional parmesan.

How To Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach

Cook an easy, delicious dinner with this sun dried tomato pasta, tossed with spinach and basil, then topped with pine nuts and Parmesan.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozBarilla Spaghetti
salt and freshly ground black pepper
8.5ozsun dried tomatoes in olive oil with herbs,1 jar, chopped, oil drained and reserved
1tbspgarlic,minced
8ozbaby spinach,roughly chopped
½cupbasil,fresh chopped
⅓cupfinely shredded parmesan cheese,plus more for serving
¼cuppine nuts

Instructions

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain while reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Once the spaghetti is about halfway cooked through, heat oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large pot over medium heat. There should be ¼ cup, if needed, use some olive oil.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add spinach and sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for about 2 minutes until just spinach wilts.
Toss drained spaghetti into the pot with spinach. Thin with pasta water as needed, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss in basil and parmesan. Serve warm topping each serving with pine nuts and Parmesan.

Nutrition

Calories: 396.62kcal
Fat: 8.21g
Saturated Fat: 1.99g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.98g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.81g
Carbohydrates: 67.92g
Fiber: 7.97g
Sugar: 17.06g
Protein: 18.07g
Cholesterol: 5.62mg
Sodium: 354.45mg
Calcium: 200.41mg
Potassium: 1772.55mg
Iron: 5.92mg
Vitamin A: 217.51µg
Vitamin C: 27.21mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta With Spinach

When sautéing the garlic and spinach, be sure to keep the heat at a medium level. Garlic can easily burn and become bitter if the heat is too high. Also, adding the spinach gradually will make it easier to handle and ensure it wilts evenly without overcooking. For the sun-dried tomatoes, you can chop them into smaller pieces for a more distributed flavor throughout the pasta. Lastly, when adding the pasta water to thin the sauce, add it gradually. This allows you to control the consistency of the sauce, ensuring it's not too thin or too thick.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Dish

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare any components of the recipe in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of the recipe and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Efficient organization: Arrange ingredients and cooking tools in an organized manner before starting to cook to avoid last-minute searches and confusion.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize time-saving kitchen gadgets such as food processors, blenders, and slow cookers to simplify meal preparation.

Quick substitutions: Familiarize yourself with ingredient substitutions to adapt recipes based on available ingredients, saving time on grocery runs.

Substitute Ingredients For Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach Recipe

barilla spaghetti - Substitute with gluten-free spaghetti: This substitution is suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil with herbs - Substitute with rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil and herbs: If you don't have the sun-dried tomatoes in oil, you can rehydrate the sun-dried tomatoes in warm water and then add a drizzle of olive oil and herbs for a similar flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique twist to the dish.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, providing a heartier texture and slightly earthy flavor to the dish.
basil - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for basil, providing a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino romano cheese has a similar salty and tangy flavor to parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
pine nuts - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can provide a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the dish, serving as a suitable replacement for pine nuts.

Best Way to Present Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta With Spinach

Elevate the plating: Arrange the pasta in a nest shape on the plate, ensuring it is visually appealing and inviting.
Garnish with fresh basil: Place a small sprig of fresh basil on top of the pasta to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts: Generously sprinkle the pasta with toasted pine nuts to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Drizzle with high-quality olive oil: Finish the dish with a drizzle of premium olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a glossy sheen to the pasta.
Dust with freshly grated parmesan: Using a fine grater, dust the pasta with a delicate layer of freshly grated parmesan cheese for a touch of richness.
Serve on elegant dinnerware: Present the sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach on elegant, minimalist dinnerware to create a sophisticated and refined presentation.

Essential Tools for Making This Pasta Recipe

Large pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the spaghetti and for mixing all the ingredients together.
Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to easily mince the garlic for the recipe.
Large pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the spaghetti and for mixing all the ingredients together.
Food processor: A food processor can be used to finely shred the parmesan cheese.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is needed for tossing the drained spaghetti with the other ingredients.
Skillet: A skillet can be used to sauté the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
Colander: A colander is necessary for draining the cooked spaghetti.
Grater: A grater can be used to grate the parmesan cheese.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring the ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients together in the pot.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Pasta

Allow the sun-dried tomato pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the pasta, it's best to undercook it slightly (al dente) before tossing it with the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and other ingredients. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when reheated.
Transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen pasta, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed pasta in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.
For best quality, consume the frozen sun-dried tomato pasta within 2-3 months. After that, the texture and flavor may start to deteriorate.

How To Reheat Leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta With Spinach

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover sun-dried tomato pasta into an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the pasta in the microwave. Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of water or olive oil to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, you can reheat the sun-dried tomato pasta in a skillet. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the pasta and toss occasionally until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works best for smaller portions.
To maintain the vibrant color and flavor of the spinach, you can reheat the pasta in a steamer basket over boiling water. This gentle method helps to prevent the spinach from becoming overcooked and mushy.
If you have leftover pasta and sauce separately, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat until warm. Cook the pasta in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, just until heated through. Drain the pasta and toss it with the warm sauce before serving.

Random Fact About Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta With Spinach

Sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach is a delicious and nutritious dish that is packed with flavor and vitamins. This recipe is a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes that has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Additionally, spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, making this dish a great option for a balanced meal. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a savory and aromatic flavor profile that is sure to please the taste buds. Enjoy this wholesome and satisfying pasta dish!

Is Making This Pasta Dish at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach recipe is quite favorable. The main ingredients, such as pasta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of parmesan cheese and pine nuts may slightly increase the cost, but they are used in moderation. Overall, this recipe offers a balance of cost and quality, making it a practical choice for a household. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients. The dish incorporates several healthy ingredients, such as spinach, which is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated source of lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. The recipe also includes garlic, known for its potential immune-boosting properties, and basil, which contains beneficial plant compounds.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to enhance its overall healthiness:

Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe by draining the sun-dried tomatoes and using less oil for sautéing
Incorporate additional vegetables, such as roasted bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the nutrient profile and add variety
Opt for a lower-sodium variety of sun-dried tomatoes to help control salt intake
Use a lighter hand when adding the Parmesan cheese to reduce the overall saturated fat content

By making these adjustments, you can elevate the nutritional value of the dish while still maintaining its delicious taste. Additionally, you could experiment with different herbs and spices to introduce new flavor dimensions without relying on excessive amounts of salt or fat.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pasta Recipe

The sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy sweetness, while the spinach brings a fresh, earthy note. The addition of garlic and basil provides aromatic depth, and the pine nuts offer a satisfying crunch. The dish is well-balanced and visually appealing, making it a versatile and impressive option for any occasion. The recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious, restaurant-quality dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Enhance Your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savory garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs, served warm and crispy.

Caesar Salad: Fresh romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and shaved parmesan.

Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with a flavorful mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for a burst of freshness.

Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing for a sweet and tangy side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Pasta Dish

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy and flavorful risotto is made with arborio rice, mushrooms, onions, garlic, white wine, and parmesan cheese. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then grill to perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine chia seeds, coconut milk, and fresh mango puree to create a delicious and nutritious pudding. This tropical-inspired dessert is perfect for a light and refreshing treat.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta With Spinach

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the classic Italian appetizer of bruschetta, featuring toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. A refreshing and satisfying start to any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy vanilla yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying parfait that is perfect for a light and healthy dessert option.

Why trust this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its use of fresh and wholesome ingredients. The sun-dried tomatoes and spinach provide a burst of flavor and essential nutrients, while the addition of garlic and basil elevates the dish with aromatic richness. The inclusion of parmesan cheese and pine nuts adds a satisfying depth and texture. Trust in the quality of this recipe, as it promises a harmonious blend of flavors and a delightful dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes. However, the flavor and texture will be different. Sun-dried tomatoes have a more intense and concentrated flavor, so you may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle would work well with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific type of pasta you choose.

Can I substitute the pine nuts with a different type of nut?

Certainly! If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different type of nut, you can easily substitute the pine nuts with chopped almonds, walnuts, or even toasted sunflower seeds for a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sun-dried tomato pasta with spinach ahead of time. However, I recommend storing the pasta and spinach mixture separately from the cooked spaghetti. When ready to serve, reheat the spinach and sun-dried tomato mixture and toss it with freshly cooked spaghetti.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure the sun-dried tomatoes are not packed in oil containing any animal products.