Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

There’s just something magical about the aroma of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan cheese filling my kitchen—it’s like I’m transporting myself to a cozy Italian bistro with every step of this pasta adventure. Let’s dive in! 🍝🌿✨

I adore the delightful blend of flavors in my Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. The rich aroma of minced garlic and red pepper flakes tantalizes the senses, while the creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, envelopes each piece of pasta.

A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a refreshing finish.

Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe Ingredients

• Pasta: A carbohydrate source providing energy, pairs well with diverse sauces.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, add tangy sweetness and umami.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhance flavor and aid nutrient absorption.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic depth and supports immune health.
• Parmesan Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, adds a savory, umami-rich flavor.

Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (e.g., penne or linguine)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
• Pine nuts, toasted, for garnish (optional)

How to Make this Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly reduce the broth.

5. Stir in the heavy cream, and allow the sauce to come back to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.

9. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.

10. Optional: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor before serving. Enjoy your pasta with sun-dried tomatoes!

Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Strainer or colander
3. Large skillet
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Knife
8. Cutting board

FAQ

Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Sun-dried tomatoes: Use 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers, drained and sliced, for a milder taste.
• Olive oil: Substitute with 3 tablespoons of avocado oil or grapeseed oil for a different flavor profile.
• Parmesan cheese: Replace with 1/2 cup of Pecorino Romano cheese for a sharper taste.
• Heavy cream: Use 1 cup of coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative with a hint of sweetness.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: Substitute with 1/2 cup of white wine for a more robust flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Finishing Touch with Pasta Water Before draining the pasta, reserve about a cup of pasta cooking water. If the sauce becomes too thick or you want to help it cling better to the pasta, adding a splash of pasta water can help loosen it while adding a bit of starchy richness.

2. Enhanced Sun-Dried Tomato Flavor Instead of draining all the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes, consider using a tablespoon of that flavorful oil for sautéing the garlic. It will add a deeper, richer taste to the dish.

3. Cheese Melting Technique To ensure the Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce, remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly before stirring in the cheese. This helps prevent clumping and ensures a creamy texture.

4. Cream Consistency Tip For an extra silky sauce, you can temper the heavy cream by warming it slightly in a separate pan before adding it to the skillet. This will help maintain the sauce’s texture and prevent curdling.

5. Boost with Freshness For a burst of freshness and a bit of acidity, consider finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. It will brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the cream and cheese.