There’s something truly magical about the aroma of sundried tomato pasta wafting through the kitchen. It’s like a warm hug, with flavors that dance on your taste buds, creating a delightful symphony of savory bliss. Picture this: you take that first forkful, and it’s like a burst of sunshine on your palate—tangy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of herbs swirling together in perfect harmony.
This dish is not just for special occasions; it’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impromptu gathering with friends. I remember one evening when I whipped up this sundried tomato pasta for my family. The smiles around the table were priceless as they savored every bite, proving yet again that good food brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sundried tomato pasta is incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- Bursting with flavor, it combines tangy tomatoes and fresh herbs for a mouthwatering experience
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with whatever ingredients you have on hand!
I once served this dish at a potluck, and my friends couldn’t stop asking for seconds—definitely a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta of Your Choice: I usually go for penne or fusilli because they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Sundried Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality ones in oil; they’ll add rich flavor and moisture to the dish.
Fresh Garlic: Nothing beats freshly minced garlic; it adds an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over pasta; its fruity notes enhance the overall flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds depth and creaminess to every bite.
Fresh Basil or Spinach: These greens not only brighten the dish visually but also contribute freshness to each forkful.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing all those wonderful flavors together; season to taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain but reserve some pasta water.
Sauté Garlic and Sundried Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil along with minced garlic and chopped sundried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—taking care not to burn the garlic.
Add Creaminess: Lower the heat and pour in a splash of reserved pasta water along with heavy cream or your choice of plant-based cream. Stir well until combined, creating a luscious sauce.
Toss in Pasta and Cheese: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with your creamy mixture and toss gently until fully coated. Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese while mixing—it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Add Fresh Greens: Finally, stir in fresh basil or spinach until wilted slightly—this should only take about one minute—adding color and nutrition to your dish.
Serve & Enjoy!: Plate your sundried tomato pasta while it’s still hot! Finish off with an extra drizzle of olive oil and more cheese if you like. Dive into this delightful creation immediately!
This simple yet satisfying sundried tomato pasta will transform any meal into a cherished memory filled with laughter—and maybe some friendly food fights over who gets the last bite!
You Must Know
- Sundried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and simple ingredients
- The bright colors and enticing aroma create a feast for the eyes and nose, making it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta al dente while sautéing garlic and sundried tomatoes in olive oil. Once the pasta is cooked, toss it into the pan with your sauce for a quick finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your sundried tomato pasta by adding grilled chicken, spinach, or even feta cheese. These extras can elevate your dish and surprise your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover sundried tomato pasta, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality sundried tomatoes for richer flavor; they can make all the difference in this dish
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for maximum creaminess
- Always taste as you go; seasoning can transform your dish dramatically!
I remember a time when I made sundried tomato pasta for my friends, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. Little did they know, it was just an easy recipe with lots of love!
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried tomatoes?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can work but will change the flavor profile significantly.
How do I enhance the flavor of my sundried tomato pasta?
Adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese amplifies the flavors beautifully and adds creaminess.
Is sundried tomato pasta vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s a fantastic vegetarian option packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients.
Sundried Tomato Pasta
Sundried Tomato Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the warmth of the Mediterranean to your table. With its rich combination of tangy sundried tomatoes, creamy Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, this pasta dish is perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to lively gatherings with friends. Whip up this easy recipe in less than 30 minutes for a mouthwatering meal that will impress everyone!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, garlic, and sundried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Lower the heat and stir in reserved pasta water and cream until well combined.
- Add cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing gently to coat with sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Fold in fresh basil or spinach until just wilted.
- Serve hot, drizzled with olive oil and extra cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
