This Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that brightens up your weeknight dinners! With just a handful of ingredients like pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic, you’ll love how simple it is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni is a great choice for this dish, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta shape can hold onto the sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I prefer using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for their rich flavor. If you have dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate before using. You can also use fresh tomatoes for a lighter flavor!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its richness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful depth. For a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
How Can I Achieve the Creamiest Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce without clumping is key to this Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth sauce:
- Start with a medium heat to prevent burning the garlic.
- Be sure to stir the heavy cream well after adding it to the skillet. Allow it to warm gradually for the best consistency.
- Grate your Parmesan cheese instead of using pre-grated. Fresh cheese melts better and keeps the sauce smooth.
- Mix in the cooked pasta immediately to ensure it absorbs the creamy sauce for extra flavor.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy sun-dried tomato pasta that’s sure to please!
Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rigatoni or pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (preferably oil-packed)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Additional Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 20 minutes in total for this recipe. This includes 10 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes to cook and combine everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After that, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute or until it gets fragrant—but be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time to add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Give them a good stir and let them cook for about 2 minutes. This will enhance their flavor!
4. Make it Creamy:
Next, pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir it well to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Allow it to warm and slightly thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Mix in Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts, making the sauce creamy and delicious.
6. Add Spinach:
Throw in the fresh baby spinach and cook it until it’s wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds color and nutrients to your dish!
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Carefully add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss it all together so the pasta gets evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
8. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your pasta with salt, black pepper, and, if you like a bit of spice, some crushed red pepper flakes. Give it a good mix. Serve your delicious pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful sun-dried tomato pasta, a perfect balance of rich, tangy flavors and fresh spinach!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but keep in mind they’ll give a different flavor profile. For a similar taste, try roasting fresh tomatoes before adding them to the sauce. Use about 1-2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes and cook them until soft before stirring in the cream.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and use dairy-free cheese options instead of Parmesan.
How Can I Add More Protein to the Dish?
Great idea! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein. Simply cook the protein separately and mix it in with the pasta during the final few steps to heat through.
