Irresistible Sun Dried Tomato Pasta in 30 Minutes!

Recipe By:
James Walker
Updated:

There’s something about sun dried tomato pasta that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: you twirl your fork around those luscious strands of spaghetti, draped in a silky sauce bursting with the rich, sweet-tart flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, and you can practically hear your taste buds cheering in anticipation. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also elevates any meal from mundane to magnificent.

Now imagine sharing this culinary delight with friends or family on a cozy evening. The laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the joy of good company all come together over a bowl of this irresistible pasta. It’s perfect for dinner parties, casual get-togethers, or simply when you need to indulge yourself after a long day. With every bite, you’ll discover layers of flavor that leave you craving more; it’s a flavor experience that’s simply unforgettable.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This sun dried tomato pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
  • Bursting with flavors from garlic and basil, it’s a crowd-pleaser
  • The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests
  • Versatile enough to pair with chicken or veggies for added flair

I vividly remember the first time I made this dish for friends; their faces lit up with joy as they took their first bites.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Spaghetti: Choose high-quality dried spaghetti; it holds the sauce beautifully and cooks to perfection.

  • Sun Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed ones for richer flavor; they add intense sweetness and depth.

  • Fresh Garlic: Use minced garlic for that aromatic punch; fresh is always best for maximum flavor.

  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; drizzle some at the end for extra flavor.

  • Fresh Basil: Use whole leaves for garnishing; they add freshness that brightens every bite.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the pasta and adds a savory kick.

  • Red Pepper Flakes: A dash adds heat without overpowering; adjust based on your spice tolerance.

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 spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in sun-dried tomatoes and sauté until softened.

Create the Sauce: Pour in reserved pasta water gradually while stirring to create a silky sauce. Add red pepper flakes if desired and combine well.

Toss with Pasta: Gently add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until noodles are well coated in deliciousness.

Add Garnishes and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top along with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.

With these steps, you’re just moments away from enjoying your delightful sun dried tomato pasta!

You Must Know

  • Sun dried tomato pasta is not just a dish; it’s a culinary adventure!
  • The vibrant flavors elevate any meal, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself
  • You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste, ensuring every bite is delightful

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cook the pasta until al dente while sautéing garlic and sun dried tomatoes in olive oil. This creates a wonderful aroma and flavor balance, ensuring everything comes together perfectly.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute fresh basil for spinach or add grilled chicken for protein. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover sun dried tomato pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps bind the sauce beautifully
  • Don’t rush adding cheese—let it melt slowly for creaminess
  • Lastly, taste as you go; adjusting seasoning can transform the dish!

I still remember the first time I made sun dried tomato pasta for my friends. They were blown away by how something so simple could taste so gourmet!

FAQs

FAQ

What are sun dried tomatoes?

Sun dried tomatoes are ripe tomatoes that have been dehydrated to enhance their flavor.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun dried?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to develop that rich flavor.

How do I make sun dried tomato pasta vegan?

Use plant-based cheese and omit any animal proteins for a delicious vegan version.

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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

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Sun-dried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Featuring luscious spaghetti enveloped in a rich, silky sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, this recipe is perfect for both casual evenings and special gatherings. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it transforms any meal into a memorable experience. Enjoy this easy-to-make pasta with family or friends and elevate your dinner routine!

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook until softened.
  3. Create the Sauce: Gradually add reserved pasta water while stirring to make a silky sauce. Incorporate red pepper flakes as desired.
  4. Toss with Pasta: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing until well coated in the sauce.
  5. Add Garnishes: Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil on top. Serve immediately while hot.
  • Author: James
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Boiling/Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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