There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of sundried tomato pasta wafting through your kitchen, that warm blend of garlic, herbs, and a hint of Mediterranean sunshine. Just imagine twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, each bite bursting with rich flavors that make your taste buds dance. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that transports you to a bustling Italian trattoria, where every meal is a celebration.
The first time I made this sundried tomato pasta for my friends, they were skeptical. “How good can dried tomatoes be?” they laughed. But with one taste, their skepticism melted away like butter in a hot pan. Now, it’s the go-to dish for our cozy gatherings and impromptu dinner parties. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a Wednesday night, this recipe never fails to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The simplicity of this sundried tomato pasta means you’ll have dinner ready in under 30 minutes
- The rich flavor profile combines tangy, sweet, and savory notes that please any palate
- Its vibrant colors create an appealing visual feast that turns any meal into an event
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand
I still remember the look on my friend Sarah’s face when she took her first bite—pure bliss! It became an instant favorite among my circle.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Pasta: Any long pasta works well here; I prefer spaghetti or linguine for optimal twirling.
-
Sundried Tomatoes: Choose oil-packed sundried tomatoes for added flavor; they’ll make the sauce luxurious.
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.
-
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall flavor profile.
-
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a creamy texture and salty finish—don’t skip it!
-
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves brings brightness and freshness to the dish.
-
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for a kick if you want some heat in your life!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do it.
Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Sundried Tomatoes: Toss in those beautiful sundried tomatoes and red pepper flakes into the skillet. Stir them around until they soften slightly—about 3 minutes will do.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain your pasta but reserve about half a cup of cooking water. Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with some reserved water to help bind everything together.
Toss with Cheese and Basil: Remove from heat and add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Toss everything together until well combined—this is where the magic happens!
Serve and Enjoy: Plate your sundried tomato pasta and garnish with extra cheese or basil as desired. Dive right in—you’ve earned it!
With these easy steps, you’ve created a show-stopping dish that tastes as good as it looks—and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- This sundried tomato pasta is not just flavorful; it’s a delightful dance of textures and colors
- The smell of garlic and tomatoes fills the kitchen, making it a feast for the senses
- Perfect for quick dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your pasta al dente, then sauté garlic and sundried tomatoes in olive oil for maximum flavor. Combine everything with fresh herbs for a fragrant finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out sundried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or throw in some spinach for extra nutrition. Cheese lovers can sprinkle Parmesan or feta on top before serving.
Storing & Reheating
Store 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 the creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid sticky pasta, always add salt to boiling water before cooking
- Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent clumping
- Fresh herbs at the end will brighten up the dish beautifully!
Cooking this sundried tomato pasta reminds me of that one dinner party where I accidentally spilled half a jar of sundried tomatoes on my friend’s white tablecloth. Spoiler alert: we laughed about it all night!
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried tomatoes?
Absolutely! Just roast them first to enhance their sweetness and flavor.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What protein pairs well with sundried tomato pasta?
Grilled chicken or shrimp complements this dish perfectly, adding protein and flavor.
Sundried Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of sundried tomato pasta, a delightful dish that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. With its rich blend of garlic, fresh basil, and tangy sundried tomatoes, this pasta is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Ready in under 30 minutes, each bite offers a burst of Mediterranean sunshine, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 cup oil-packed sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta al dente in salted boiling water according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve ½ cup of cooking water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant and golden (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add chopped sundried tomatoes and red pepper flakes to the skillet; stir until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Combine the drained pasta with the skillet mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil until well combined.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese or basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (210g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
