Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Linguine
- 4 qts (3.8L) Water
- 2 tbsp (30g) Salt
- 3 tbsp (45ml) Sun-dried tomato oil
- 4 cloves (12g) Garlic, minced
- ½ cup (80g) Sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) Heavy cream
- ¾ cup (75g) Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ½ tsp (2.5g) Red pepper flakes
- 3 cups (90g) Fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup (10g) Fresh basil, chiffonade
- 1 tbsp (15ml) Lemon juice
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions, but remove the pasta 2 minutes before the al dente time. Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of the starchy pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta boils, heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Transfer the undercooked linguine directly into the skillet. Toss gently with tongs, adding the reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until the sauce reaches a glossy, velvety consistency.
- Fold in the fresh baby spinach and stir for 30-60 seconds just until the leaves begin to wilt. Remove from heat immediately.
- Stir in the fresh basil and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.