Savor the flavors of Italy with this sun dried tomato pasta recipe. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with rich, savory flavors that will impress your family and friends. With a combination of sun dried tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of olive oil, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (fusilli or penne)
– 100g sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp olive oil
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 person) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in the chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Once pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
7. Add drained pasta to the skillet with sun dried tomatoes.
8. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
9. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
10. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute sun dried tomatoes with fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan option.
Serving and Pairings
This sun dried tomato pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or grilled vegetables. A glass of white wine also complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce. This dish is not recommended for freezing as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
– Not reserving pasta water can result in a dry dish.
– Using too much garlic can overpower the flavor.
– Forgetting to season the dish can make it bland.
– Not tossing the pasta with the sauce can lead to uneven flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality sun dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
– Experiment with different types of pasta for variety.
– Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
– Adjust the amount of olive oil based on your preference.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make sun dried tomato pasta vegan by using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese and ensuring that all other ingredients are plant-based.
What type of pasta works best?
While fusilli and penne are great choices, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti or farfalle, to suit your taste.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added for extra protein, making it a more filling meal.
How can I enhance the flavor?
Consider adding herbs like oregano or thyme, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra depth of flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can make sun dried tomato pasta gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta, which is widely available in most grocery stores.
Conclusion
Sun dried tomato pasta is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its rich taste and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful meal and impress your guests with your culinary skills!
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta fusilli or penne
- 100 g sun dried tomatoes chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Once pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with sun dried tomatoes.
- Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
