There’s something magical about the aroma of sun-dried tomatoes wafting through your kitchen. Their tangy sweetness and vibrant colors can make any dish feel like a gourmet experience, turning even the simplest pasta into a culinary masterpiece. Just imagine twirling your fork around those luscious strands, with each bite bursting with flavor that dances across your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show.
I have fond memories of my first encounter with sun-dried tomatoes. It was at my friend Sarah’s dinner party, where she served a delightful pasta dish that had everyone raving. I remember thinking, “How can something so simple taste so good?” The secret was those little red wonders! Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or just treating yourself on a Tuesday night, this recipe will elevate your meal to new heights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sun-dried tomato pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners effortless
- The combination of flavors creates an exciting and memorable dish that’s sure to impress
- Its bright colors and inviting aromas will have everyone gathered around the table in no time
- Perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a showstopper for entertaining friends!
I still chuckle when I think back to that dinner party and how everyone was fighting over the last serving of pasta—talk about a compliment!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Any type works well, but I recommend penne or fettuccine for maximum sauce adherence.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Look for oil-packed varieties; they add rich flavor and moisture to your dish.
Fresh Basil: Use fresh leaves for a fragrant pop of flavor; dried basil won’t do this recipe justice.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential; it brings out the best flavors in the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a savory depth that complements the sweet sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste—don’t skimp here!
For seasoning:
Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spice to kick things up if you’re feeling adventurous!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous amount of salt before tossing in your pasta. Cook until al dente, following package instructions.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not burned—about 30 seconds. Then add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Add the Pasta: Drain the pasta but reserve some cooking water. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with garlic and tomatoes, mixing everything well.
Create the Sauce: Pour in reserved pasta water gradually while mixing until you achieve your desired consistency. Stir in fresh basil leaves, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until melted and combined, giving it that creamy texture we all crave.
This sun-dried tomato pasta is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like spinach or chicken if you’re feeling fancy!
You Must Know
- Sun dried tomatoes are a flavor-packed ingredient that can elevate many dishes
- Their rich taste adds depth to salads, pasta, and more
- Keep them handy for an instant upgrade to your cooking repertoire
- Plus, they’re incredibly versatile!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by rehydrating sun dried tomatoes in hot water while you prepare the other ingredients. This helps them soften and releases their robust flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap sun dried tomatoes with fresh ones during peak season for a lighter option. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano for an extra burst of freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Sun dried tomatoes pack a punch, but soaking them too long can make them mushy
- Always taste first before mixing into dishes
- Use high-quality olive oil for deeper flavor infusion when sautéing
It was my cousin’s wedding when I first discovered the magic of sun dried tomatoes in a pasta dish. Everyone kept asking for seconds, and I felt like a culinary genius!
FAQ
What are sun dried tomatoes?
Sun dried tomatoes are ripe tomatoes that have been dehydrated to concentrate their flavor.
How do I use sun dried tomatoes in recipes?
Add them to salads, sauces, or as pizza toppings for a flavor boost.
Can I make my own sun dried tomatoes?
Yes! Simply slice fresh tomatoes and dehydrate them in the oven at low heat for several hours.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Sun-dried tomato pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that elevates any weeknight meal into a gourmet experience. With its tangy sweetness and enticing aroma, this simple recipe combines al dente pasta with rich sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress with every mouthful, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds; add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the garlic and tomatoes. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in fresh basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top; stir until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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