Spaghetti with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes – A Quick & Flavorful Pasta Dish

Pasta lovers, this one’s for you! If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Spaghetti with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a perfect choice. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s an easy dish that feels special enough for a weekend dinner but is quick enough for a busy weeknight.

This dish combines the earthy goodness of spinach, the tangy richness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the warmth of garlic and olive oil, all tossed together with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s light yet satisfying, and best of all, it comes together in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
✔ Healthy & Delicious – Loaded with fresh ingredients and nutrients.
✔ Customizable – Add chicken, mushrooms, or cheese to make it your own.
✔ Minimal Cleanup – A simple one-pan sauce means fewer dishes to wash!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz spaghetti (regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ tsp salt & black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water

Optional Add-Ins:

• Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal
• More Veggies: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavor
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Stir in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavor into the oil. If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, you can reduce the olive oil slightly.

3. Add the Spinach

Toss in the chopped spinach and stir everything together. Cook for 2 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted.

4. Toss Everything Together

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to combine. Pour in a splash of reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta in the sauce and bring everything together.

Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything one last time and let it cook for another minute or two to absorb the flavors.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately, and enjoy this simple yet elegant pasta dish!

Recipe Variations & Customizations

⭐ Spaghetti with Spinach & Chicken – Add grilled or shredded chicken for extra protein.
⭐ Spaghetti with Spinach & Mushrooms – Sauté sliced mushrooms along with garlic for an earthy twist.
⭐ Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce – Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of ricotta for a creamy version.
⭐ Vegan Version – Skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
⭐ Spaghetti Spinach Salad – Let the pasta cool and toss with fresh arugula, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a cold pasta salad.

What to Serve With This Dish

This pasta dish is delicious on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, here are a few great pairings:

• Garlic Bread – Because extra carbs are always a good idea!
• Simple Side Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing pairs beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat it with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

Can I Use a Different Pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works great with linguine, fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?

The best way is to reheat it in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil. You can also microwave it, but add a small splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is proof that simple ingredients can create bold flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So, grab your pasta and get cooking! Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with your fellow pasta lovers. 🍝✨

Did You Try This Recipe?

Let me know how it turned out! Tag me on social media and share your delicious creation. 😍