Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Name: Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 200 g fettuccine or pasta of choice; 100 g sun dried tomatoes (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 50 g grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of sun dried tomato pasta, a dish that combines the tanginess of sun dried tomatoes with the richness of a creamy sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering pasta dish that is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

– 200g fettuccine or pasta of choice
– 100g sun dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Red pepper flakes (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 person) contains approximately:
– Calories: 600
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 70g
– Fat: 25g
– Fiber: 3g

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While the 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 another 2 minutes.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
9. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the cooking water.
10. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding reserved water if needed for consistency.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option. Additionally, use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. For a vegan version, replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based cream.

Serving and Pairings

This sun dried tomato pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain creaminess. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture.
Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances the flavors.
Using too much cream can make the dish too rich.
Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry sauce.
Forgetting to sauté garlic can result in a lack of flavor.

Helpful Tips

Use high-quality sun dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
Experiment with different pasta shapes for variety.
Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Garnish with fresh herbs to enhance presentation.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can easily make sun dried tomato pasta vegan by using plant-based cream and omitting the cheese or using nutritional yeast as a substitute.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine is recommended for this recipe, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid separation of the sauce.

Can I freeze sun dried tomato pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the cream sauce may separate and change texture upon thawing.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Sun dried tomato pasta is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and simplicity in preparation. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress your guests while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, savory pasta that celebrates the taste of sun dried tomatoes!