Tuscan Sun Pasta

Transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked hills of Tuscany with this creamy and indulgent Tuscan Sun Pasta. Featuring tender fettuccine or penne tossed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, this dish is elevated by the irresistible flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, wilted baby spinach, and a touch of crushed red pepper for subtle heat. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce for a silky finish, while fresh basil adds a fragrant pop of brightness. Ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night at home. Serve it hot and savor the vibrant, comforting flavors of the Mediterranean!

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.

Step 4

Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted into the sauce and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 7

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.

Step 9

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your Tuscan Sun Pasta!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	929.3 grams (929.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2472

Total Fat 180.40g	231%
Saturated Fat 73.60g	368%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 300mg	100%
Sodium 4626mg	201%
Total Carbohydrate 143.40g	52%
Dietary Fiber 18.40g	66%
Total Sugars 20.90g
Protein 56.00g	112%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 907mg	70%
Iron 12mg	68%
Potassium 2040mg	43%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 67.1%

Protein: 9.3%

Carbs: 23.7%