Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil is like a hug in a bowl comforting, flavorful, and just the right amount of saucy. Picture this: tender pasta dancing in a rich sun-dried tomato sauce, complemented by the fresh zing of basil. tasty mushroom tacos It’s not just food; it’s an experience that can transport you straight to an Italian trattoria without the need for an airplane ticket.
Every time I whip up this dish, I’m reminded of those summer evenings spent on my grandma’s porch, where the aroma of herbs mingled with laughter and stories. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this pasta makes every occasion feel special. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of savory tomatoes and aromatic basil.
- Its vibrant colors create a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress.
- Versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or served alone as a vegetarian delight.
Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use your favorite type spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work beautifully for this recipe.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added richness and flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Nothing beats the fragrant aroma of freshly chopped basil; it elevates the dish immensely.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will add depth; avoid pre-minced versions if you can.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall richness; drizzle generously!
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds creaminess and a salty kick that ties everything together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember, no one likes mushy pasta! Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned nobody wants burnt garlic ruining the party.
Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Toss in those beautiful sun-dried tomatoes and let them mingle with the garlic for another two minutes. This step infuses your kitchen with heavenly aromas that will make your neighbors jealous.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add your cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together well. If it looks too dry (and we don’t want that), splash in some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Basil & Parmesan
Remove from heat and fold in freshly chopped basil along with generous amounts of grated parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well coated the cheese should melt into a beautiful creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer the pasta onto plates or into bowls. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired and sprinkle extra parmesan on top for that gourmet touch!
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil is not just food; it’s a heartfelt experience that brings joy to any table!
You Must Know
- This delightful Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration in a bowl.
- With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it transforms any ordinary dinner into an extraordinary occasion.
- Plus, it’s quick to whip up on busy weeknights!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil, start by cooking the pasta in boiling salted water. While that’s bubbling away, sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil for maximum flavor infusion before tossing everything together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil! You can swap in spinach or kale for added nutrition, or sprinkle some feta cheese or grilled chicken to elevate the dish. Add crushed red pepper if you like a little heat! For more inspiration, check out this Grilled Salmon with Avocado recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- 1.
- Always salt your pasta water generously; this enhances flavor right from the base of the dish.
2.
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for richer taste and easier blending into sauces.
3.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente yields better texture when combined with the sauce.
Sometimes, I find myself reminiscing about that one dinner party where my friends devoured this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta like they hadn’t eaten in days. The laughter and compliments were enough to make my heart swell! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta recipe.
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil?
To create a delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil, you’ll need pasta of your choice, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and salt. You can also add chili flakes for a bit of heat or pine nuts for crunch. Make sure to use high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish. This combination of ingredients creates a vibrant and flavorful meal that showcases the richness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of basil.
How long does it take to prepare Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil?
Preparing Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil is quick and easy. The total time required typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta, sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, and mixing everything together. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can enjoy this dish fresh on your dining table in no time!
Can I customize my Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil?
Absolutely! You can easily customize your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. For protein lovers, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs well with this dish. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or cheese based on your liking. Experimenting with flavors allows you to create a unique version that fits your palate perfectly.
Is Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil healthy?
Yes, Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil can be a healthy meal option when prepared thoughtfully. It provides carbohydrates from pasta and essential nutrients from fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes. Using whole grain pasta can increase fiber content. You can also control the amount of olive oil and cheese to make it lighter if desired. Overall, it’s a balanced dish that delivers great taste along with nutritional benefits.
Conclusion for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil:
In summary, making Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil is simple and rewarding. With just a few key ingredients like pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil, you can whip up a flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. This dish is versatile and allows room for customization based on personal preferences while being nutritious at its core. green beans with bacon Whether enjoyed on busy weeknights or during special gatherings, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite!
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Fresh Basil is a quick and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Italian cooking. Tender pasta is enveloped in a rich sun-dried tomato sauce, enhanced by the aroma of fresh basil. This delightful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a burst of savory goodness that will impress your taste buds in just 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well. If too dry, add reserved pasta water as needed.
- Remove from heat; fold in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese until well combined and creamy.
- Plate the pasta, drizzle with extra olive oil if desired, and sprinkle more Parmesan on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - Customize by adding spinach or grilled chicken for protein. - Adjust garlic or cheese quantities based on preference. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.
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