There’s something magical about Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta that captures the essence of summer in each bite. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, with bursts of sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes mingling with creamy sauce that clings lovingly to every strand. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of pasta works best for sun-dried tomato pasta?
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
- How can I make this dish vegetarian?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a warm evening, and friends had gathered for a spontaneous dinner party. As I plated the vibrant Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, laughter filled the room, and so did the delicious scent of garlic and herbs. It quickly became a favorite among my friends, sparking memories of shared meals and late-night conversations over bowls of this delightful dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is not only easy to prepare but packs robust flavor in every bite
- You can customize it based on what ingredients you have on hand
- Its stunning colors will impress at any dinner gathering
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions
Sharing this recipe has led to countless compliments from family and friends who rave about its deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta of Your Choice: I prefer spaghetti or penne, but any pasta shape will work beautifully here.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed ones for added flavor; they blend seamlessly into the sauce.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key; it adds a fragrant kick that elevates the entire dish.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy—perfect for coating your pasta.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese not only adds flavor but also creates a lovely texture in the sauce.
Fresh Basil: Use it for garnish; it adds a pop of color and fresh aroma that brightens up the dish.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavors and keeps everything luscious while cooking.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving some pasta water for later.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—watching closely so garlic doesn’t burn.
Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously as you sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer gently until thickened slightly—a comforting creaminess should envelop everything nicely.
Toss Everything Together: Add cooked pasta into the skillet with creamy sauce. Toss well to coat each piece thoroughly; if needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve!: Remove from heat; serve immediately garnished with fresh basil leaves and more grated Parmesan on top. Enjoy while it’s warm!
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is sure to become a household favorite!
You Must Know
- Sun-dried tomato pasta is a delightful dish full of rich flavors and vibrant colors
- Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether a cozy dinner or an extravagant gathering
- The aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes wafting through your kitchen will make everyone swoon
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes before adding the pasta. This sequence ensures the best fusion of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish’s creaminess too.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to preserve texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for superior flavor; they’re worth it
- A splash of lemon juice adds brightness and balances richness
- Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be tender yet firm, also known as al dente
Sharing this sun-dried tomato pasta recipe always brings smiles around my dinner table, especially when friends ask for seconds!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for sun-dried tomato pasta?
Penne or fusilli are great choices as they hold onto the sauce well.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes! Fresh tomatoes provide a different but delicious flavor profile when roasted first.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit any meat and load up on veggies; it’s still incredibly satisfying!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, where perfectly cooked pasta twirls around bursts of sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes enveloped in a creamy sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also impressively colorful, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With garlic, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, each bite promises a delightful taste that will make your gatherings memorable.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
- 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add 8 oz of spaghetti or penne and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- 2. Sauté: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3. Creamy sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring continuously. Gradually add in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it thickens slightly.
- 4. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing well to coat. Use reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- 5. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese. Enjoy warm!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
