Recipes

Healthy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach (No Cream!)

A light and creamy pasta dish made with penne pasta, Greek yogurt, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp sun dried tomato oil (from the tomato jar)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/3 cup jarred sun dried tomatoes, chopped finely
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/3 cup Greek yogurt (2% fat)
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup pasta water
  • 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped

Notes

  • - Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. - Higher fat percentage Greek yogurt is recommended for a creamier sauce. - Save pasta water to help thicken the sauce. - You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.

  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sun dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sun dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Stir in tomato paste and sauté for 5 minutes to caramelize and deepen the flavor.

  4. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and let thicken for 3-5 minutes.

  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and pasta water until smooth. Add spinach and wilt completely.

  6. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, coat thoroughly, and finish with fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.