Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

This Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a rich, creamy, and satisfying pasta dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Packed with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan, and fresh basil, this simple Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it as-is for a hearty vegetarian meal, or pair it with grilled chicken or seafood for extra protein.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4
Calories: 424 kcal per serving

Ingredients

• 8 oz linguine
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (divided)
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• 6 oz fresh spinach
• 5 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release the flavors.
3. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
   Pour in the half-and-half. Add paprika and ¼ teaspoon salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
4. Melt the Cheese:
   Stir in ½ cup of the shredded Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce begins to thicken. If the sauce is too thin, gradually stir in more cheese until you reach the desired consistency.
   Note: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash more of half-and-half.
5. Add the Spinach:
   Add fresh spinach to the sauce. Stir gently over medium heat for about 1 minute until the spinach wilts.
6. Combine and Finish:
   Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.
7. Serve:
   Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or scallops for a complete meal.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use unsweetened oat cream or cashew cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
• Add-ins: Try mushrooms, artichokes, or olives for added flavor and texture.