Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Sun-dried tomato pasta is a dish that brings joy and flavor to your table, perfect for any occasion. Picture this: you’re in the kitchen, and as you begin cooking, the delightful aromas of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes fill the air. It’s comforting yet sophisticated, making it an ideal choice whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a harmony of flavors that truly satisfies. So, grab your apron and let’s cook up a plate of this delectable sun-dried tomato pasta together. You’re going to love how simple and delicious this dish can be!

What is Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Sun-dried tomato pasta is a delightful and flavorful dish that showcases the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes combined with a creamy sauce. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it an ideal option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With each bite, you’ll experience the deep, concentrated flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, complemented by a lush, creamy base. This dish evolves from everyday ingredients into something truly special, inviting you to savor every moment of your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

This sun-dried tomato pasta is not only quick to prepare—taking just about 30 minutes—but it also delivers a burst of flavors that leave a lasting impression. The creamy, rich sauce, paired with the tangy notes of sun-dried tomatoes, creates a comforting yet elegant meal that’s meatless and satisfying. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a great addition to your recipe repertoire. Plus, with minimal effort, you can impress family and friends, making it a go-to dish for gatherings.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

To make this delicious pasta, gather these ingredients:

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (your preferred type)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste

You’ll find that these ingredients are not only easy to find, but they also come together beautifully, making the cooking process enjoyable.

Preparing the Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Boil the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking the pasta until al dente is crucial, so follow the package instructions. Before you drain it, make sure to reserve a splash of that flavorful pasta water. This step helps adjust the sauce later if necessary.

Melt the Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it’s foamy. This luxurious base sets the stage for your incredible sauce and adds richness to the overall dish.

Cook Garlic and Flour

Next, add 1/2 tablespoon of flour and 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them gently for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell that fragrant garlic. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn your sauce bitter.

Add Liquids and Seasonings

Now comes the fun part! Whisk in 1/2 cup of dry white wine (or chicken broth) along with 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Allow this mixture to simmer. The goal is to reduce it by half, which concentrates the flavors and creates a solid foundation for your sauce.

Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream

After that, stir in 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 3/4 cup of heavy cream. Let this mixture gently bubble for about 5 minutes. During this time, it thickens beautifully, blending all those amazing flavors together.

Finish with Cheese and Spinach

Next, mix in 1/3 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Then, fold in 2 cups of packed fresh baby spinach, allowing it to wilt in the delicious sauce. The vibrant green spinach not only adds a lovely color but also a nutritious boost.

Combine with Pasta

Now it’s time to marry the cooked pasta with your creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Toss them together until the pasta is generously coated. If you find the sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Season this creamy masterpiece with salt and pepper to taste, and prepare for the deliciousness!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your sun-dried tomato pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant touch. This not only enhances the dish’s presentation but also elevates the flavor profile.

Tips for Success

• Ensure to reserve some pasta water to help adjust the sauce’s consistency, which is key for a smooth finish.
• You can adjust the richness of the sauce to your liking by varying the amount of cream used.
• Make sure to sauté the garlic correctly to avoid bitterness; this step can make a significant impact in the end.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to make this dish your own! You can:

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, which complements the flavors wonderfully.
• Substitute spinach with kale or arugula if you’re looking to switch things up. Each green brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
• For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream; it works surprisingly well while still keeping the sauce creamy.

Pairing Ideas

For the ultimate dining experience, pair this sun-dried tomato pasta with a simple green salad, some crusty bread, or even a glass of chilled white wine. Each pairing enhances your meal experience and allows the flavors to shine even more.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but be aware that the flavor will differ. Sun-dried tomatoes provide that concentrated flavor, which truly enhances this dish.

2. Is this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This sun-dried tomato pasta is a vegetarian dish, perfect for Meatless Mondays or any occasion when you want something hearty without meat.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if necessary.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture.

5. What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta will work, but fettuccine, penne, or farfalle are great options because they hold that creamy sauce beautifully.

This sun-dried tomato pasta is not just a quick meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds. With its creamy sauce enriched by sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, this dish showcases how simple ingredients can transform into a gourmet delight. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or serving it to guests, this pasta is guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Give it a try, and savor the flavors of Italy right in your kitchen!

More Easy Lunch & Dinner Recipes:

• Southern Style Dirty Rice
• Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
• Roasted Spaghetti Squash
• Turkey Burger Patties

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish combining creaminess with tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Quick and satisfying, it’s perfect for any occasion.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (your preferred type)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, reserving pasta water.
• Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add flour and garlic, sautéing for 30 seconds.
• Whisk in wine or broth, mustard, lemon juice, and seasoning; simmer to reduce by half.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cream; let bubble for 5 minutes.
• Mix in Parmesan until melted; fold in spinach until wilted.
• Combine cooked pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Season to taste.

Notes

Reserve some pasta water for adjusting sauce thickness.
Adjust cream quantity based on desired richness.
Sauté garlic carefully to avoid bitterness.

• Author: Rachael
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2
• Sodium: 400
• Fat: 24
• Saturated Fat: 13
• Unsaturated Fat: 8
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 48
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 14
• Cholesterol: 70