The aroma of sun dried tomato pasta wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with its rich, savory profile. You can almost taste the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes mingling with fresh basil and garlic—delicious!
Thinking back, I remember the first time I made sun dried tomato pasta for friends. We laughed, we slurped, and we may have even engaged in a light-hearted noodle-slinging contest. It’s the perfect dish for cozy dinners or spontaneous gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sun dried tomato pasta is incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The flavor is a delightful balance of savory and sweet, leaving everyone asking for more
- Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and leftover veggies!
I once served this dish at a potluck, and my friends insisted on taking home leftovers—what a compliment!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Choose your favorite variety; I often use penne or spaghetti for that perfect al dente bite.
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Sun Dried Tomatoes: Opt for those packed in oil for added flavor; they elevate any pasta dish to gourmet status.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they infuse the dish with warmth and depth of flavor.
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Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves to add a refreshing herbal note that brightens the entire dish.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top; it brings creaminess and an indulgent finish.
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Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances all the flavors beautifully.
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Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste; these basics amplify every ingredient’s natural goodness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes; remember to stir occasionally.
Sauté Garlic: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—just don’t let it burn!
Add Sun Dried Tomatoes: Toss in the sun dried tomatoes next, letting them mingle with the garlic for about 2-3 minutes. They’ll release their oils and intensify those flavors.
Toss in Pasta: Drain your cooked pasta (save some water) and add it straight into the skillet with the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for creaminess.
Add Fresh Basil: Gently fold in chopped basil leaves right before serving; they’ll wilt slightly but retain their fresh essence.
Finish with Cheese: Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy every bite!
Now that you’ve learned how to create this delightful sun dried tomato pasta from scratch, gather your loved ones around—dinner is served!
You Must Know
- This sun dried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor
- It’s quick to prepare and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
- The sundried tomatoes add a rich, tangy depth that elevates the entire meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta while you sauté garlic in olive oil, then stir in sun dried tomatoes to create a flavorful base.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water for moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality sun dried tomatoes for more intense flavor; they make all the difference
- Always salt your pasta water for better seasoning throughout your dish
- Lastly, don’t skip the fresh herbs—basil or parsley brighten everything up!
Memories of sharing this dish with friends at my dinner table always bring smiles and laughter, making it a staple at gatherings.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for sun dried tomato pasta?
Penne or fettuccine are great choices as they hold sauce well.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegan cheese and omit any meats for a delicious vegan version.
How can I enhance the flavor of my sauce?
Adding a splash of white wine while cooking can elevate your sauce beautifully.
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with fresh basil and garlic. Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, this pasta recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Toss in the drained pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Fold in fresh basil leaves before serving and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. - For a protein boost, consider including grilled chicken or shrimp. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.