Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta: A Flavorful Delight

You know that feeling when you walk into a kitchen, and the aroma of garlic and herbs hits you like a warm hug? That’s the magic of sun dried tomato pasta. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, with vibrant bursts of tangy sun dried tomatoes mingling with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone is invited.

Now, picture this: it’s a cozy Sunday afternoon. You’ve got friends over for dinner, and the table is set for an Italian feast. As the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow on the dining room, you present your masterpiece—sun dried tomato pasta. The laughter fills the air as you serve up heaping bowls of this delightful dish. Trust me; it will be an unforgettable experience.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; they couldn’t stop raving about it! I think they were more excited about the pasta than my questionable dance moves later that night.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use your favorite type—spaghetti or penne work great for catching all the sauce.

• Sun Dried Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality ones packed in oil for maximum flavor and richness.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic punch that enhances the overall taste.

• Heavy Cream: This is what makes your sauce luxuriously creamy and indulgent.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a salty depth that ties everything together.

• Fresh Basil: A handful of chopped basil adds a refreshing touch and brightens the dish.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking and drizzling over the finished dish.

• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of these adds just the right amount of heat if you’re feeling spicy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Boil Your Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions while stirring occasionally.

Sauté Garlic and Sun Dried Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds before adding chopped sun dried tomatoes.

Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted into a creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta beautifully.

Toss It All Together: Drain your pasta, reserving some cooking water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved water as needed to reach desired creaminess.

Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped basil and red pepper flakes over your pasta. Give it one last toss before serving hot to enjoy those amazing flavors!

With each bite of this sun dried tomato pasta, you’ll find a delightful blend of creamy goodness paired with tangy notes from those lovely tomatoes. And hey, don’t forget to take pictures; trust me—your friends will want proof that you actually cooked!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while you sauté garlic and sun dried tomatoes in olive oil. This sequence saves time and enhances flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the sun dried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes or add spinach for extra nutrients. Customize to your taste!

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 water.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a dinner party where everyone asked for seconds. Watching friends enjoy my cooking made me realize how simple ingredients can create lasting memories.

FAQ

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun dried tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but they require longer cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats nicely for easy lunches.

What protein can I add to this sun dried tomato pasta?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas work great as protein additions.

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Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

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Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, creamy dish bursting with flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this recipe combines al dente pasta with rich sun dried tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a luxurious cream sauce. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s simple to prepare yet delivers a gourmet experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling, Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 cup sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• ½ cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot of salted water, cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir in sun dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
5. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil and red pepper flakes before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
• Calories: 580
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 85mg