Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

This sun-dried tomato pasta recipe is a delightful 30-minute dish that feels indulgent yet remains simple to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it features a creamy sauce enriched with garlic, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of parmesan. The vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes elevate this pasta, making it a standout choice whether you’re serving family or hosting friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream creates a rich, tasty sauce that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Meatless Delight: A great option for vegetarian meals without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
• Creamy Texture: The silky sauce coats the pasta beautifully, offering a luxurious feel without being overly heavy.

Tools and Preparation

To make this sun-dried tomato pasta recipe smoothly, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta; ensures even cooking and ample space.
• Skillet: Used for creating the creamy sauce; allows for even heat distribution when melting butter.
• Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing the sauce components.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware; gives better control while mixing.

Ingredients

This 30-minute sun-dried tomato pasta recipe is a bright meatless meal that feels a touch luxurious! The creamy sauce has garlic, spinach, and a dusting of parmesan.

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 tablespoon flour
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup dry white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (see note)
• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

For the Spinach

• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach

To Taste

• Salt & pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water.
2. Add the uncooked pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Stir in flour and minced garlic; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients

1. Whisk in apple vinegar (or broth), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning.
2. Cook until the mixture reduces by half.

Step 4: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream

1. Add sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet followed by heavy cream.
2. Allow it to bubble gently for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Spinach

1. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted.
2. Add fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy sauce mixture in the skillet.
2. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.
3. Season with salt & pepper to taste before serving immediately.

Enjoy this hearty sun-dried tomato pasta as a comforting meal any day of the week!

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Sun-dried tomato pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner at home or hosting a gathering, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens and colorful veggies adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing complements the pasta’s richness.

Add Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken on top enhances flavors and adds protein.
• Shrimp: Lightly sautéed shrimp can elevate this dish to a seafood delight.

Enhance with Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese enhances the dish.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil leaves add a burst of freshness and color.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused bread can complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

To make your sun-dried tomato pasta even better, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Bold flavor enhancement: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for richer taste.
• Creaminess adjustment: Adjust cream quantity based on your desired sauce thickness.
• Flavor infusion: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not burnt for optimal flavor.
• Pasta cooking timing: Ensure pasta is al dente for the best texture in your dish.
• Seasoning balance: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for perfect seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Complement your sun-dried tomato pasta with these delicious side dishes. Each option adds variety and enhances your meal experience.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs make a great pairing.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a fresh appetizer.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer vibrant flavors.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates an inviting spread.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with pita chips is great for sharing before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sun-dried tomato pasta, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the pasta cooking time: Make sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up in the sauce.

• Skipping the seasoning: The right amount of salt and pepper is essential for enhancing flavors. Always taste your dish before serving and adjust accordingly.

• Using old sun-dried tomatoes: Ensure your sun-dried tomatoes are fresh for the best flavor. If they look dry or discolored, they may not provide the rich taste you expect.

• Not reserving pasta water: When draining your pasta, save a bit of the cooking water. Adding this starchy liquid can help balance the sauce’s consistency.

• Neglecting to wilt the spinach properly: For optimal texture and flavor, ensure you give the spinach enough time to wilt in the sauce before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Sun-dried tomato pasta can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute increments until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sun-dried tomato pasta vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and omit the parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

While fresh tomatoes can be used, they will change the flavor profile and may require additional cooking time to achieve a similar richness.

What types of pasta work best with this recipe?

Pasta shapes like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti complement sun-dried tomato pasta well due to their ability to hold onto sauces.

How can I customize my sun-dried tomato pasta?

Feel free to add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp, or toss in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This sun-dried tomato pasta recipe is not only quick and simple but also versatile enough for various palates. You can customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables, making it suitable for any occasion. Give it a try—it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Print

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Sun-dried tomato pasta is a decadent yet easy 30-minute meal that brings vibrant flavors and creamy textures to your dinner table. This dish features the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes combined with garlic, fresh spinach, and parmesan cheese in a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. With its hearty ingredients and quick preparation time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality pasta right at home.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup dry white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot; cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and minced garlic; sauté for about 30 seconds.
3. Whisk in apple vinegar (or broth) with Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning; reduce by half.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream; simmer gently for around 5 minutes.
5. Mix in parmesan cheese until melted, then add fresh spinach until wilted.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet; season with salt and pepper before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For a vegan version, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and omit parmesan or use plant-based cheese. Feel free to customize with additional proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.