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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta : A Creamy Meal

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If you’re looking for a delicious and easy pasta dish, this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is the perfect choice! With a creamy, garlicky sauce infused with the deep, tangy flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is a restaurant-quality meal you can make in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re searching for a tomato pasta recipe, a meatless meal, or a quick pasta dinner recipe, this dish delivers bold flavors and simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Pair it with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a satisfying meal!

Table of Contents

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Why You’ll Love This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

  • Rich & Creamy – A luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce coats every bite.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Meatless & Satisfying – A great vegetarian meal that feels indulgent.
  • Customizable – Add your favorite pasta shape, proteins, or veggies.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for a family dinner or a romantic date night.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or tortellini)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup vegetable broth or pasta water
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this sun-dried tomato pasta recipe, you’ll need:

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for the sauce
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth (or pasta water) and let simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

  1. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, coating evenly.
  2. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Expert Tips for the Best Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

  • Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes – They add more flavor than dry-packed.
  • Reserve pasta water – It helps thicken the sauce and improve texture.
  • Want a lighter version? – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk.
  • For extra protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
  • Make it extra cheesy – Stir in mozzarella or ricotta for a richer sauce.

Fun Variations of Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

  • Sun-Dried Tomato Tortellini – Use cheese tortellini instead of regular pasta.
  • Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta – Add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Pasta – Toss in fresh spinach for a veggie boost.
  • Mushroom & Tomato Pasta – Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy twist.

How to Store & Keep Your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

  • Top with burrata cheese for an elegant touch.
  • Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
  • Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

  • Skipping the pasta water – It helps create a silky sauce.
  • Overcooking the pasta – Keep it al dente for the best texture.
  • Not chopping the sun-dried tomatoes finely – Smaller pieces mix better into the sauce.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

  • Bruschetta or Caprese salad for a classic Italian starter.
  • Garlic knots or breadsticks to soak up the sauce.
  • A light lemon vinaigrette salad for a fresh contrast.
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FAQ Section

1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes! Whole milk or half-and-half works, but the sauce will be thinner.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

3. What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds the sauce well.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful meatless meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Whether you’re making it for family, meal prep, or a romantic date night, it’s guaranteed to impress!

Try this tomato pasta recipe today and share your results! Tag us on social media and subscribe for more delicious pasta dinner recipes!

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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta : A Creamy Meal

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Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy pasta dish, this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is the perfect choice!

  • Author: Lyndy kitchen
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Total Time: 25
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale

    • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or tortellini)

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil)

    • 3 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

    • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

    • 1 cup heavy cream

    • ½ cup vegetable broth or pasta water

    • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

    • Salt & black pepper (to taste)

    • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

    1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

    1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

    1. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

    1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

    1. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

    1. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.

    1. Pour in vegetable broth (or pasta water) and let simmer for 2 minutes.

    1. Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

    1. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

    1. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, coating evenly.

    1. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

    1. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

    1. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

    • Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes – They add more flavor than dry-packed.

    • Reserve pasta water – It helps thicken the sauce and improve texture.

    • Want a lighter version? – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk.

    • For extra protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 2g

Keywords: Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

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