Irresistible Sundried Tomato Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights

The aroma of roasted garlic mingling with the sweet tang of sundried tomatoes wafts through the kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge in a bowl of deliciousness. This sundried tomato pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that dances on your palate and warms your heart.

Picture this: a cozy evening with friends gathered around the table, laughter echoing as you serve up plates brimming with vibrant pasta, glistening in its rich sauce. The joy on their faces as they take that first bite? Priceless. This dish is perfect for casual dinners, date nights, or even when you just want to treat yourself to something special.

Sharing this dish with friends brought smiles and compliments all around. It quickly became a go-to favorite at our family gatherings.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Pasta: I recommend using penne or fusilli for their ability to hold onto the sauce beautifully.

• Sundried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sundried tomatoes for added flavor and moisture.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they add depth and aroma that dried garlic simply can’t match.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for superior flavor; it melts perfectly into the sauce.

• Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a delightful kick without overpowering other flavors.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; be generous but taste as you go!

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 chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute. Toss in chopped sundried tomatoes and cook until slightly caramelized.

Create the Sauce: Pour in reserved pasta water gradually while stirring. Add grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until creamy. Adjust thickness by adding more water if needed—it should cling beautifully to your pasta!

Add Pasta and Season: Gently fold in the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Sprinkle red pepper flakes along with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every piece is well-coated.

Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove from heat and stir in freshly chopped basil. Let it sit for a minute before serving—this allows flavors to meld together wonderfully!

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful sundried tomato pasta! A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top never hurt anyone either!

Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta; while it cooks, sauté garlic and sundried tomatoes in olive oil. This multitasking approach ensures everything finishes simultaneously for a seamless meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sundried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or add chicken for extra protein. Customize spices or herbs, like basil or chili flakes, to match your taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain creaminess and avoid drying out.

I remember the first time I made this sundried tomato pasta recipe for friends. They raved about it and even asked for seconds – who knew such simplicity could impress so much?

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for sundried tomato pasta?

Any pasta shape works well, but penne or fettuccine holds sauce beautifully.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried?

Yes, but you’ll need to roast them first to achieve similar flavors.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for texture.

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Sundried Tomato Pasta

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a bowl of sundried tomato pasta, where the rich aroma of roasted garlic meets the vibrant tang of sundried tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delectable dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you want to impress your guests. With its creamy sauce and fresh basil, this pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup oil-packed sundried tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add chopped sundried tomatoes and cook until caramelized.
3. Gradually pour reserved pasta water into the skillet while stirring. Mix in grated Parmesan until creamy; adjust thickness with more water if necessary.
4. Fold cooked pasta into the sauce, adding red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in freshly chopped basil and let sit for a minute before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 66g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute sundried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different flavor. For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.