There’s something magical about sundried tomato pasta that makes it a go-to comfort dish in my kitchen. Imagine twirling your fork into a bowl of perfectly al dente pasta bathed in a rich, tangy sauce bursting with the flavors of sweet sundried tomatoes and aromatic garlic. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas are enough to make anyone swoon, especially after a long day.
This delightful dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re hosting friends for an impromptu dinner party or simply treating yourself to a quiet night in, this sundried tomato pasta will elevate any occasion. I promise, each bite is an explosion of flavor that will have you craving seconds – or thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sundried tomato pasta is incredibly quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its burst of flavors leaves taste buds dancing with joy and excitement
- The dish’s warm colors and textures make it visually appealing on any table setting
- It’s versatile enough to accommodate various add-ins, from protein to vegetables based on your preference
I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; the compliments flew around the table like confetti. Everyone was raving about how delicious it was, and my euphoria knew no bounds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use your favorite type; I love penne for its perfect sauce-hugging shape.
- Sundried Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality ones packed in oil for maximum flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh is best! It adds that aromatic punch we all crave.
- Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds creaminess and depth to the dish.
- Fresh Basil: A handful of chopped basil elevates the flavor profile significantly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
Sauté the Garlic: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Sundried Tomatoes: Toss in chopped sundried tomatoes into the pan with garlic. Stir continuously until they soften and their delicious aroma fills your kitchen.
Combine Ingredients: Drain your cooked pasta (reserving some cooking water) and add it directly into the pan with the sundried tomatoes and garlic.
Toss Everything Together: Pour in more olive oil if needed, adding reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired sauciness. Mix thoroughly until every noodle is coated.
Garnish and Serve!: Remove from heat; sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil over the top. Serve warm with extra cheese on the side for those who want more!
Enjoying sundried tomato pasta is not just about filling your belly; it’s about savoring each moment spent cooking and sharing with loved ones. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes an instant favorite at your dinner table!
You Must Know
- Sundried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that’s both simple and flavorful
- The sweetness of the sundried tomatoes, combined with fresh herbs, creates an irresistible aroma
- This dish can be a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling salted water for the pasta. Sauté garlic and sundried tomatoes while the pasta cooks. Combine everything at the end for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap sundried tomatoes for sun-dried bell peppers or add chicken for protein. Toss in fresh basil or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sundried tomato pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to restore its creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously; it enhances flavor immensely
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key!
- Fresh herbs added at the end give vibrant flavor without wilting
Cooking this dish reminds me of my first attempt, where I accidentally mistook cayenne pepper for paprika and turned it into a spicy adventure. My friends loved it, and we all had a good laugh!
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to achieve desired flavors.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! Just ensure any cheese used is dairy-free or omit it entirely.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or lentils.
Sundried Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Sundried Tomato Pasta is a vibrant and comforting dish that brings together perfectly cooked pasta, tangy sundried tomatoes, and aromatic garlic in a rich sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Each bite bursts with flavor, complemented by fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package directions.
- 2. Sauté garlic: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3. Add sundried tomatoes: Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes and cook until softened.
- 4. Combine ingredients: Drain cooked pasta (reserve some water) and add it to the pan with the tomato-garlic mixture.
- 5. Toss together: If needed, add additional olive oil and reserved pasta water gradually until desired sauciness is achieved. Mix well to coat all noodles.
- 6. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, top with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
