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Spicy Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Pasta dish with vibrant colors

Spicy Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

A warm, versatile weeknight favorite made with pasta, sun dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, perfect for a cozy dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Flavor Base
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Use extra-virgin for best flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5 oz sun dried tomatoes, chopped Packed in oil or rehydrated.
Vegetables
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Salt and pepper
For Serving
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving Use freshly grated for best texture and flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Mince the garlic, chop the sun dried tomatoes, and rinse the spinach if needed.
Cooking
  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30–45 seconds.
  4. Stir in sun dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Add fresh spinach and red pepper flakes; cook until spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes.
  6. Combine the cooked pasta with the skillet mixture; season with salt and pepper and toss over low heat for 1–2 minutes.
  7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

For roasted tomatoes, halve fresh cherry tomatoes and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes. For a creamier finish, stir in heavy cream or mascarpone.