If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying dish, sun dried tomato pasta is your answer. This recipe highlights the intense flavor of sun dried tomatoes, creating a delightful meal that’s both quick to prepare and indulgent. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pasta dish is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce and aromatic herbs, it’s a feast for the senses. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 200g pasta of your choice
- 100g sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time takes approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/2 of the recipe) contains approximately 650 calories, 30g of fat, 75g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. This is based on a serving size of 200g of pasta with the sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun dried tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to combine.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Additionally, use gluten-free pasta if needed or replace sun dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This sun dried tomato pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce. Freezing is not recommended due to the cream’s texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Avoid burning the garlic by cooking on medium heat.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps to adjust sauce consistency.
- Be careful with salt; sun dried tomatoes can be salty.
- Ensure to mix the pasta and sauce thoroughly for even flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality sun dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Experiment with adding spinach or other vegetables for extra nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Make it vegan by using cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun dried?
While fresh tomatoes can be used, they will not provide the same concentrated flavor. Sun dried tomatoes are recommended for this recipe for their rich taste.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Any pasta shape works well, but fettuccine or penne are particularly good choices for holding the creamy sauce.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils, which will work equally well with the sauce.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are excellent additions for a protein boost.
Conclusion
Sun dried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether a casual dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy this comforting meal with friends and family, and savor every bite!
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta of your choice
- 100 g sun dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to combine.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition
