Saucy Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach,
This creamy Saucy Pesto Pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach is an easy 30-minute Italian-inspired dinner. Tossed in a rich basil pesto cream sauce with Parmesan cheese and tender spinach, this flavorful vegetarian pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without the meat.
Ingredients
- 1 lbs penne pasta
- 1 cup sundried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups prepared pesto
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ chopped onion
- 2 tbsp chopped garlic
- 2 tbsp each olive oil and butter
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions reserving 1 cup of the pasta water
- In a large sauté pan heat the oil and butter to medium
- Add the onion and garlic sauté until tender and just beginning to brown
- Add the sundried tomatoes sauté 5 minutes longer
- Add the cream and 1 cup of the resevered pasta water simmer covered on low for 15 minutes or until sauce thickens.
- Add the spinach, pesto sauce and parmesan cheese simmer 10 minutes longer
- Toss the drained penne with the sauce sprinkle with additional parmesan and fresh chopped Italian Parsley
Notes
Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Add a splash to the pesto cream sauce as needed to help it cling to the pasta and create a silky consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.