What is the best recipe for sun-dried tomato pasta? What is the kind of dish that instantly transports you to a sunny Italian restaurant? I remember the first time I made this, it was a cold, rainy day, and honestly, I was feeling pretty good about myself. When the aroma of the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes hit the air, everything just seemed a little different. Little brighter. If you’re a fan of Pesto Pasta, and who isn’t? – you absolutely HAVE to try this. What’s the flavor of sun-dried tomatoes? I have a picky eater and I can’t stand to eat it.
What is Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta?
Think of sun-dried tomato pasta as the sophisticated cousin of your regular tomato sauce. It’s essentially pasta tossed in a vibrant, flavorful sauce made primarily from, you guessed it, potatoes. What are sun-d These little gems are tomatoes that have been dried in the sun (or sometimes in a dehydrator) which is why they are so delicious. What is the best way to describe a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor? When blended with garlic, olive oil, herbs, and a touch of cream (or even without for softer texture) you’ll be able to enjoy Grilled Cheese, ham, or roasted chicken. What are some of the best ways to make a sauce that’s rich and satisfying? The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. Is it quick enough for a weeknight meal?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love most about this sun-dried tomato pasta is how much flavor is packed into such a simple dish. The sun-dried tomatoes are the star, of course, providing a concentrated burst of sweetness and flavor. What are some of the best garlic, herbs, and red pepper flakes you’ve ever had? I’m coming back for more. Is it easy to make pasta? What are some quick, easy meals that can be prepared in 30 minutes? Is it surprisingly cost effective? A jar of sun-dried tomatoes goes a long way, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. I usually have everything on hand! What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken, shrimp, or veggies? Is it incredibly versatile? I’ve even used different types of pasta (penne, fusilli, linguine – they all work! ), and it always turns out delicious. What is the best dish to make that’s flavorful, easy, affordable, and customizable? What are some good recipes for tomato pasta? What are my go-to weeknight meals? What is the best Shrimp Scampi recipe?
How do I make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta?
Quick Overview
What is the best way to make sun-dried tomato pasta? How do you rehydrate sun-dried tomatoes? What are some good ways to make a sauce? What are some of the best ways to add cream to a soup? ), toss with your favorite cooked pasta, and voila! Dinner is served. What is the whole process of making a restaurant-quality meal? How can I enjoy my life in the comfort of my own home?
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
* 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
* Salt, for pasta water
I always use good quality pasta. It really makes a difference in the final taste. Don’t skimp on the salt in pasta water! How do you season pasta from the inside out?
What is the recipe for Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce?
* 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil or dried)
* 1/4 cup olive oil (if using dried sun-dried tomatoes)
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat) * 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper powder.
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving) * 1 cup parmesans cheese if desired.
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
If your sun-dried tomatoes are dried, you’ll need to rehydrate them in hot water for about 15-20 minutes. I actually prefer using the kind packed in oil; they’re already soft and have a richer flavor. Just make sure to drain them well before using.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
What is the best way to boil salted water? Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. What is the best way to drain pasta water? If you want to adjust the consistency of sauce, you might need it later.
Step 2: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
If using dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in hot water for 15-20 minutes, then drain well. If using sun-dried tomatoes, drain them well, reserving a tablespoon or two of the oil.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a food processor or blender, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using) and salt. If using), and olive oil (or the reserved oil from the jar). Blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. You want a nice, smooth paste.
Step 4: Sauté the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and cook for 2 Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. Remove from heat and set aside. How do you burn garlic?
Step 5: Add Cream (Optional)
If using, stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has slightly thickened. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely richness and creaminess to the sauce. I usually add it; but I don’t have time for it. My family loves it that way!
Step 6: Toss with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water. You want the pasta to be nicely coated in the sauce.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Stir in Parmesan cheese and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
What is the best way to serve it?
What are some good side dishes to serve with sun-dried tomato pasta? What are appetizers?
For a light lunch:What is a good side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and olive oil? What is the best complement to the richness of the pasta?
What is a hearty dinner?Grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent additions to the pasta, adding protein and making it a more flavorful. I also love serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus.
As an Appetizer:Serve smaller portions of pasta as an appetizer before main course. What are some good ways to start a meal with sun-dried tomatoes?
My Family’s Favorite:My family loves it when I serve this pasta with some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious flavor. What is the perfect pairing for a glass of white wine?
How do I make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that really take this sun-dried tomato pasta to the next level.
Sun-Dried TomatoesHow good is sun-dried tomatoes? What are some examples of sun-dried tomatoes with a deep red color? Avoid ones that are pale or dried out.
Garlic: Don’t skimp on the garlic! It adds a crucial layer of flavor to the sauce. Just be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can be bitter.
Pasta Water: Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. It’s starchy and helps to create a silky, emulsified sauce. I always have a cup ready, just in case!
Cream vs. No Cream: The heavy cream is optional, but it does add a lovely richness and creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can omit the cream altogether or use a little bit of chicken broth instead. I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
Cheese: Parmesan cheese is a classic pairing with sun-dried tomatoes, but you can also experiment with other cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Herb Variations: Basil is my go-to herb for this dish, but you can also use oregano, thyme, or rosemary. A combination of herbs is also delicious!
Adjusting the Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might need to add a little extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to get it just right. And don’t be afraid to experiment with other flavors, such as lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. I’ve added a squeeze of lemon at the end a few times and it really brightens up the whole dish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This sun-dried tomato pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure it’s cooled down before refrigerating. This helps prevent bacterial growth.
Reheating: To reheat the pasta, add a splash of water or broth to the container and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this pasta, as the sauce can become watery when thawed.
Glaze Timing Advice: The Parmesan cheese and fresh basil are best added just before serving, as they can lose their flavor and texture when reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This sun-dried tomato pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and big flavors. It’s the kind of dish that brings joy to the table and makes even the busiest weeknight feel a little bit special. I truly believe that everyone should have this recipe in their repertoire. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a time-saver, and a guaranteed way to impress your family and friends. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta dishes, like my creamy pesto pasta and my spicy arrabiata. And I’d absolutely love to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Don’t forget to rate the recipe, and if you’re feeling inspired, share your own variations! Happy cooking!
sun-dried tomato pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 lb pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup basil leaves fresh
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Drain pasta and add it to the pan with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. Stir in basil, salt, and pepper.
- Serve immediately.
