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Quick Creamy Tuscan Pasta

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A quick and easy creamy Tuscan pasta recipe ready in 15 minutes, featuring a silky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach for a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup (50g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed)
  • 2 cups (60g) fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup (120ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  3. Toss in 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release their flavor.
  4. Stir in 2 cups fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Pour in 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream and stir gently. Bring to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat.
  6. Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese slowly while stirring to create a silky sauce. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.
  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if desired.
  8. Give the pasta one last stir and remove from heat. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add Parmesan cheese gradually to avoid clumping. Use fresh garlic and avoid overcooking spinach for best flavor and texture. Non-stick skillet recommended to prevent burning garlic.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tuscan pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://tinastirs.com/quick-creamy-tuscan-pasta-recipe-15-minutes-easy-and-delicious/