Description of this recipe
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a delectable dish that marries the bright, intense flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with a creamy, comforting sauce. Inspired by classic Italian cuisine, this recipe offers a balance of savory, rich, and slightly tangy notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated meal to impress guests, this pasta dish is versatile, easy to make, and bursting with flavor.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll fall in love with this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated burst of umami that’s perfectly complemented by the creamy sauce. It’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite proteins like chicken or shrimp, or extra vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach. Moreover, the combination of textures – the al dente pasta, tender sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce – creates a satisfying and delightful eating experience. Finally, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar if possible)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (85 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach leaves (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water not only helps to season the pasta but also elevates the boiling point of the water, allowing the pasta to cook more evenly. Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice – penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni all work wonderfully – and cook until al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold for pasta dishes, as it helps to bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a smoother and more cohesive texture. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the base of the sauce. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. If you have a jar of sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, using that oil adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the sun-dried tomatoes soften slightly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste to the dish. The goal is to gently infuse the oil with the aromatic flavors of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce: Now it’s time to create the creamy, luscious sauce that will coat the pasta. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly without scorching. Avoid bringing the sauce to a rapid boil, as this can cause the cream to separate and the sauce to become grainy.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings: To enhance the flavor and texture of the sauce, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). The Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory depth to the sauce, while the salt and pepper season it to perfection. The red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick of heat, adding another dimension of flavor. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the cheese has melted completely. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your preferences.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce: This is where the magic happens – when the pasta and sauce come together to create a harmonious dish. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce, ensuring that every strand is covered in creamy goodness. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out and help it cling to the pasta. The starchy pasta water acts as an emulsifier, binding the sauce and pasta together for a smoother, more cohesive texture.
Step 6: Add Greens and Herbs: For a touch of freshness and added nutrition, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil into the pasta. The spinach adds a vibrant green color and a boost of vitamins and minerals, while the basil provides a fragrant, herbaceous note that complements the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese beautifully. Cook until the spinach has wilted, which should only take a minute or two. Be careful not to overcook the spinach, as it can become mushy.
Step 7: Serve: The final step is to plate the pasta and enjoy! Divide the Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta among individual serving bowls. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an added touch of elegance and flavor. Serve warm and savor the delicious combination of creamy sauce, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease: Easy
- Flavor: Rich and Savory
- Versatility: High (can be customized with various add-ins)
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad and garlic bread.
- Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a complete meal.
- Serve as a vegetarian dish with extra vegetables like roasted bell peppers or zucchini.
Tips:
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward steps yields a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its versatility allows for endless customization, ensuring that you can create a dish that perfectly suits your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to indulge in a bowl of creamy, flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta that will leave you craving more.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While penne, fettuccine, and rigatoni are excellent choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Consider shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or even farfalle (bow-tie pasta). The key is to choose a pasta that holds the sauce well.
- Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream. Replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
- How can I add more protein to this dish? There are several ways to add more protein to this pasta. You can incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, sausage, or even chickpeas. Simply add your chosen protein during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the reheated sauce. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra pasta water to thin it out.
- What are some other vegetables I can add to this recipe? The possibilities are endless when it comes to adding vegetables to this pasta. Consider adding roasted bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even cherry tomatoes. The key is to choose vegetables that complement the flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce.
