Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Penne

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes to warm and infuse the oil with their flavor.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Chef tips

• Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the richest flavor. If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for 20 minutes and drain well before chopping.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Add mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra veggies without overpowering the flavor.
• Keep reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency—it helps the sauce cling to the pasta better.