There’s something magical about sun dried tomato pasta that pulls you in like a warm hug on a chilly day. The rich, tangy flavors of sun dried tomatoes mingle beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a delightful dish that dances on your palate. Each twirl of pasta glistens with promise, and the aroma wafts through the kitchen like an invitation to indulge.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; it was a rainy Saturday afternoon. As I stirred the bubbling sauce, memories flooded my mind of family dinners filled with laughter. Little did I know, this simple sun dried tomato pasta would become our go-to comfort meal, perfect for cozy nights or impromptu gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sun dried tomato pasta is fast and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends
- The flavor is rich and creamy, making it a crowd-pleaser at any table
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning and appealing to any guest
- Versatile enough to add veggies or proteins based on your mood or pantry
This dish never fails to impress friends who can’t believe how simple yet delicious it is.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Use your favorite type; I recommend penne or fusilli for capturing sauce perfectly.
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Sun Dried Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality ones packed in oil for extra flavor and moisture.
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Cream: Heavy cream works best for achieving that luscious consistency; half-and-half can be used if you prefer lighter options.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add a depth of flavor; always use fresh instead of powdered for better results.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese rather than using pre-packaged for maximum flavor and creaminess.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds richness; choose extra virgin for its robust taste.
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Spinach (optional): Fresh spinach brightens the dish and adds nutrients; toss it in during the last minute of cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
First things first: Gather all your ingredients to avoid running around the kitchen like a headless chicken.
Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente; this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta but reserve some cooking water.
Sauté Garlic and Sun Dried Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes. Sauté until garlic becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes—just enough time to clear out those pesky thoughts about what else could be for dinner.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and tomatoes while stirring constantly to combine. Let it simmer gently until it thickens slightly—around 3-4 minutes—transforming into a velvety wonderland that will have you dreaming of Italy.
Add Pasta and Spinach: Toss the cooked pasta into your creamy sauce along with a handful of fresh spinach if using. Mix well until everything is coated beautifully; let the spinach wilt down just enough so it doesn’t feel like an afterthought but part of the meal’s heart.
Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is achieved. Taste-test joyfully; season with salt and pepper as needed—remember that no one likes bland pasta!
Now all that’s left is plating! Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top because let’s face it—who can ever have too much cheese?
Enjoy each bite of this sun dried tomato pasta as you revel in its flavors, knowing you’ve created something truly special in just under 30 minutes!
You Must Know
- This sun dried tomato pasta recipe is a game-changer; it’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights
- The burst of flavors will impress anyone at your dinner table, bringing smiles and satisfied appetites
- Plus, it’s an easy dish to customize based on what you have in the pantry
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta while sautéing garlic and sun dried tomatoes in olive oil. Combine everything with fresh basil for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the pasta type or add veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. A dash of red pepper flakes can spice things up too!
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 olive oil to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect sun dried tomato pasta, ensure you taste as you go; seasoning can vary with ingredients used
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later
- Don’t forget to finish cooking the pasta in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption!
The first time I made this dish, my friends couldn’t believe it was homemade. They kept asking for seconds and thirds—it felt like a mini restaurant night at home!
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can create a lighter sauce but may need longer cooking time.
How do I make this sun dried tomato pasta vegetarian?
Simply skip any meat additions and load up on vegetables instead for a hearty meal.
What can I serve with sun dried tomato pasta?
A side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully, enhancing your dining experience without overpowering flavors.
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich, tangy flavors of sun dried tomato pasta, a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This creamy pasta is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. With vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas, each bite promises a delightful culinary experience that your family and friends will love.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup sun dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 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 and reserve some cooking water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked pasta and spinach (if using) to the sauce. Mix well until coated.
- Remove from heat, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed, and season with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
