If you have a penchant for vibrant Italian flavors and crave a dish that’s bursting with color and zest, this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, tangy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh garlic, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all elevated by the fragrant touch of fresh basil and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. This recipe offers a deliciously comforting yet fresh pasta experience that feels both indulgent and bright all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe keeps things simple with a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in flavor, texture, or visual appeal. You’ll find that these essentials come together effortlessly yet make a profound difference on your plate.
- 12 ounces pasta: Choose spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta that can hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in olive oil): These bring rich, concentrated tomato flavor and a lovely chewy texture.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Opt for extra virgin for the best fruity notes that tie the dish together.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds that irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle heat element that awakens the palate without overpowering.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Fresh and juicy, they add a burst of sweetness and balance.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Basil brings a bright, herbaceous freshness that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A touch of salty creaminess that enhances the flavor and texture.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Fundamental seasonings that bring harmony to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): A splash of acidity that makes the flavors pop.
How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your selected pasta and cook until just al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to save about a cup of pasta water before draining – this starchy liquid will help create a silky sauce later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute or until fragrant. This step infuses the oil with a warm, aromatic base that will carry the rest of the flavors.
Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes along with any oil they came packed in. Let them soften a bit in the skillet, releasing their intense, sweet-tart essence to form the heart of your sauce.
Step 4: Spice Things Up and Add Cherry Tomatoes
If you love a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes now. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for three to four minutes, just until they begin to soften but still hold a pop of juiciness that balances the richness of the sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain your pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently over low heat, gradually stirring in the reserved pasta water as needed to create a luscious, cohesive sauce that clings lovingly to each noodle.
Step 6: Add Basil and Season
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves for an herbaceous brightness. Season your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe with salt and black pepper to taste, and if you want a fresh lift, a splash of lemon juice will brighten all those vibrant flavors beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and serve immediately. For an extra layer of richness and umami, sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy the satisfying blend of tangy, fresh, and savory elements all dancing together in one gorgeous bowl.
How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh basil leaves or flaky Parmesan cheese over the top not only heightens the visual appeal but also adds aromatic and creamy contrasts to the dish. A drizzle of good olive oil just before serving can also add a glossy finish and extra depth.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines best when paired with crisp, fresh salads or lightly roasted vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic roasted asparagus complements the main flavors without competing, creating a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, try serving the pasta in individual shallow white bowls to highlight its vibrant red hues. You can also twirl portions around a fork and stand them upright to create an elegant, restaurant-style presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens gives a fresh, gourmet appearance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to three days, retaining most of their flavor and texture with a quick reheat.
Freezing
While pasta with fresh tomatoes freezes best if consumed fresh, you can freeze the cooked pasta separately without the fresh cherry tomatoes and basil for up to 2 months. Reheat gently and add fresh ingredients upon serving to keep the vibrant flavors intact.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent drying out and maintain the delightful texture of the tomatoes and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of those packed in oil?
Yes, you can use dried sun-dried tomatoes, but you’ll want to rehydrate them first in warm water or broth to soften them up. Keep in mind that you may want to add a bit more olive oil since oil-packed tomatoes contribute flavor and moisture.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti are perfect because their surfaces help trap the sauce. The choice also depends on your texture preference, but any pasta that holds sauce well will enhance this dish beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan-friendly alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, so you can control the heat level. Leave them out if you prefer a milder pasta, or increase for a spicier kick that contrasts nicely with the sweet tomatoes.
How long does it take to prepare this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes — 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook. It’s a quick yet rewarding recipe when you want a flavorful weeknight dinner without the fuss.
Final Thoughts
This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is a true celebration of simple yet bold ingredients coming together in harmony. It’s a dish that’s quick to prepare, full of exciting flavors, and versatile enough to make your own. I can’t wait for you to try making it and enjoy that perfect blend of tangy, fresh, and savory that will keep you coming back for more!
Print
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a flavorful and vibrant dish combining the rich depth of sun-dried tomatoes with fresh cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil. Perfectly cooked pasta is tossed in a savory olive oil and garlic sauce, enhanced with optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a bright hint of lemon juice. A quick and easy recipe that brings Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type)
Sauce
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in olive oil)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, then add the pasta. Cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare Sauce Base: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add the sun-dried tomatoes along with any oil they were packed in to the skillet. Stir to combine and allow the tomatoes to soften.
- Add Heat and Fresh Tomatoes: If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and mix well. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the sun-dried tomato mixture. Toss everything together over low heat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish with Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped basil and season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash of lemon juice. Toss everything together one last time to combine flavors.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed, making the sauce silky and cling to the pasta better.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil add richness and depth; if using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water before use.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a lovely creamy and salty layer to the dish.
- Adjust red pepper flakes quantity based on desired spiciness or omit if you prefer no heat.
- Lemon juice brightens the overall flavor and balances the richness of the sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of light white wine.
