Creamy Tuscan Garlic Herb Pasta

A luscious, comforting pasta dish simmered in a single pot, featuring tender noodles, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a medley of fresh herbs in a velvety garlic cream sauce.

This creamy Tuscan pasta quickly became a favorite in my family for its ease and comforting taste.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne
• Vegetables & Aromatics: 2 tbsp olive oil 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 small yellow onion, finely diced 1 cup (60 g) sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (oil-packed, drained) 3 cups (90 g) baby spinach
• Liquids: 3 ½ cups (830 ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
• Cheese & Herbs: ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp dried Italian herb mix (basil, oregano, thyme) ¼ cup (10 g) fresh basil, chopped 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Seasonings: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

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Step 1:

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion sauté 23 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2:

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1 minute.

Step 3:

Add uncooked pasta, vegetable broth, cream, and milk. Stir to submerge the pasta.

Step 4:

Sprinkle in dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium low. Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1012 minutes or until pasta is al dente and liquid has reduced to a creamy sauce.

Step 5:

Add spinach and cook for 23 minutes until wilted.

Step 6:

Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.

Step 7:

Remove from heat. Fold in fresh basil and parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8:

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe always brings us together around the table for a warm family dinner.

Notes

For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans. Substitute gluten free pasta if needed. For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream. Excellent paired with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light bodied red.

Required Tools

Large deep skillet or Dutch oven Wooden spoon Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Contains Milk cheese (dairy) wheat (gluten in pasta) May contain sulfites (in sun dried tomatoes) Always check product labels for hidden allergens.

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Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

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This Tuscan garlic herb pasta is perfect for a quick comforting meal any night of the week.

Questions & Answers

→ What pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine or penne are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well, but any sturdy pasta shape will work.

→ Can I substitute fresh spinach with other greens?

Yes, baby kale or arugula can be used but add them at the end to preserve their texture.

→ How do sun-dried tomatoes affect the flavor?

They add a concentrated sweetness and tang that complements the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?

Use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, omit cheese, and ensure pasta contains no eggs.

→ What herbs enhance the flavor profile?

Dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme blended with fresh basil and parsley provide depth and freshness.

→ How can I thicken the sauce if needed?

Simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid or stir in a small amount of grated cheese to help thicken naturally.