The aroma of sundried tomato pasta fills the kitchen, wafting through the air like an irresistible invitation to indulge. Imagine twirling those vibrant red noodles around your fork, each bite bursting with rich flavors and a hint of Mediterranean sunshine. It’s a dish that dances on your palate, with every mouthful reminding you of sun-soaked summers and laughter shared over a table filled with friends.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. Picture this: a cozy family dinner where everyone gathers, forks clinking against plates, and stories flow as freely as the olive oil drizzled on top. Sundried tomato pasta is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends. Trust me; once you taste this delight, you’ll be eagerly anticipating your next plateful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sundried tomato pasta is incredibly easy to whip up, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is rich and savory without being overwhelming
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy!
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies for any dietary preference
I vividly recall the first time I made sundried tomato pasta for my friends. Their delighted faces lit up the room as they took their first bites, and I felt like a culinary magician.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Choose your favorite type; I prefer fettuccine for its ability to hold sauces beautifully.
Sundried Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality ones packed in oil for maximum flavor and juiciness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic creates an aromatic base that enhances all flavors in the dish.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor that complements the sundried tomatoes perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds creaminess and a salty kick—don’t skimp on this!
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves brightens up the dish with herby freshness.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these if you like a little heat to balance out the richness of the sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. This will usually take about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté Garlic and Sundried Tomatoes: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped sundried tomatoes, cooking until fragrant—about 2-3 minutes should do it.
Add Flavor Bombs: Stir in red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous! Then pour in a splash of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to each strand.
Toss Everything Together: Drain your pasta but save that glorious water! Add it directly into the skillet with garlic and tomatoes, tossing everything together gently until well-coated.
Add Cheese and Basil: Finally, fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with torn basil leaves. The cheese will melt into the sauce while adding rich creaminess—a match made in heaven!
Serve Hot: Plate your sundried tomato pasta while hot and sprinkle with extra cheese and basil as garnish. Get ready for compliments from everyone at the table!
Enjoy every delightful bite of this comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor!
You Must Know
- This delightful sundried tomato pasta is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion
- The bright colors and rich aromas will make your kitchen feel like an Italian bistro
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta, then sauté garlic and sundried tomatoes in olive oil for a fragrant sauce. Toss everything together with fresh basil for the perfect finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spinach or grilled chicken to enhance this dish. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavors even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using high-quality sundried tomatoes can significantly boost flavor; look for those packed in oil
- Remember not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens all the flavors wonderfully
Sometimes, I whip up this dish when friends come over, and they always rave about it! Their faces light up as they dig into that vibrant plate of pasta.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried ones?
Fresh tomatoes can be used, but they won’t have the same concentrated flavor profile.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit any meat and add more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for variety.
What can I serve with sundried tomato pasta?
This pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Sundried Tomato Pasta
Sundried Tomato Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With each twirl of rich, red noodles, you’ll experience an explosion of taste reminiscent of sun-soaked summers. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings, offering a delightful blend of savory sundried tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil. Serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup sundried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Yield: 4 servings.
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook fettuccine until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic and sundried tomatoes for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, then add reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine until well-coated.
- Fold in parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves until the cheese melts into the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese and basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
