Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta combines the robust flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, crimini mushrooms, and baby spinach in a rich, creamy sauce, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal. This recipe utilizes simple ingredients like garlic, white wine, and heavy cream to enhance the textures and tastes of the pasta. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or as a special dish when entertaining, this pasta promises to be a hit for its ease and flavorful experience.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is not just about its creamy texture but also the depth of flavor that each ingredient brings. The crimini mushrooms offer a meaty texture, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the subtle bitterness of baby spinach. The garlic and white wine create a fragrant base that elevates this dish from simple to extraordinary. This pasta dish is versatile, perfect for a cozy family dinner or dressed up for entertaining guests.
Why you’ll love this dish…
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of butter, heavy cream, and starchy pasta water creates a lusciously smooth sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
- Flavorful: Each ingredient, from the earthy mushrooms to the vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, contributes to a full-bodied flavor profile.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for those seeking a gourmet meal without extensive prep and cooking time.
- Versatile: It’s easily adaptable. You can add chicken or shrimp or keep it vegetarian. It’s also perfect for using up leftover vegetables.
You need more PASTA in your life.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta shopping list
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Butter
- Crimini Mushrooms
- Garlic, Minced
- Baby Spinach
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Diced
- White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc recommended)
- Pasta Water
- Heavy Cream
- Pasta
How to make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Wondering what you’re getting yourself into when you make this dish? Here’s a quick overview of the process! Make sure you follow the instructions at the recipe card at the bottom of the post while you’re cooking.
- Prepare the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until al dente, reserve half a cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside, keeping it covered.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté until they are golden and all their moisture has evaporated.
- Add Vegetables and Wine: To the mushrooms, add minced garlic, baby spinach, and diced sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until the spinach has wilted. Pour in the white wine, allowing it to reduce for about 5 minutes, intensifying the flavors.
- Combine and Simmer: Stir in the reserved pasta water, cooked pasta, and heavy cream. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to plates or a serving dish and serve hot. Optional garnishes could include grated Parmesan or fresh basil.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta FAQ
How should I store Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream if necessary.
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
For the best results, serve immediately. However, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce components up to a day in advance, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Are there any substitutions for the ingredients?
You can substitute the crimini mushrooms with any mushroom variety. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap spinach for kale for a different texture.
Serve this with…
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad makes a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich pasta.
- Grilled Broccolini: For a healthier side, lightly steamed broccoli complements the pasta well.
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 medium crimini mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 1 handfull baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes diced
- 1 cup white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- 1/2 cup pasta water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound pasta
Instructions
- Put a pot of well-staled water on to boil. Cook the pasta al dente when it comes to a boil. Drain well, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and keep the pasta covered until ready to use.
- Melt the butter in a large sauté pan. Add the mushrooms and cook until they are lightly browned and the water has released and cooked off.
- Add the garlic, baby spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Sautè until the spinach is wilted.
- Add the wine to the pan and let it cook down for about 5 minutes.
- Add the pasta water, pasta, and cream to the pan. Mix it in until everything is well coated. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes while simmering, stirring frequently.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.