Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a pasta dish that bursts with flavor and a touch of gourmet flair, this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta will quickly become your new favorite. It brings together the richness of creamy sauce, the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh pop of baby spinach, creating a perfect balance of colors and textures in every bite. Simple ingredients come together effortlessly to deliver a comforting yet sophisticated meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta comes from its elegant simplicity. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, delivering layers of flavor, creamy texture, or vibrant color. Gathering fresh, pantry staples, and a handful of star performers like sun-dried tomatoes guarantees a dish that’s anything but ordinary.

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite type like penne or fettuccine for the perfect pasta base that holds the creamy sauce well.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create that velvety roux to thicken the sauce.
• 1/2 tablespoon flour: The secret to a luscious sauce consistency without any lumps.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a fragrant and savory depth that wakes up the whole dish.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Enhances complexity and slightly brightens the sauce with subtle acidity.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a hint of tangy sharpness that balances the creaminess perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brings fresh brightness and lifts all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that adds aromatic warmth and authenticity.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: The star ingredient with concentrated tomato flavor that infuses the sauce beautifully.
• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: Gives the sauce its signature creamy texture and smooth mouthfeel.
• 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty element that enriches every forkful.
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: A vibrant, healthy addition that wilts into the sauce lending freshness and color.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt seasons the pasta from the inside out, which is key to building flavor from the base up. Cook the pasta until al dente, which means it’s tender but still has a slight bite. This texture keeps your pasta lively and satisfying once mixed with the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Create the Roux with Butter and Flour

While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the flour and minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until the mixture is fragrant and slightly thickened. This step forms a roux, which will be the foundation for your rich, velvety sauce and ensures it clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

Step 3: Add Wine and Seasonings

Whisk in the dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Let this bubble and cook down until the liquid reduces by half, concentrating the flavors and achieving that perfect balance of tang and herbaceousness.

Step 4: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream

Next, stir in the vibrant sun-dried tomatoes along with the heavy cream. Allow this mix to simmer gently for about five minutes. The tomatoes infuse the sauce with a pleasantly sweet, sun-kissed flavor, while the cream thickens it into a luscious, dreamy texture that feels indulgent without being overpowering.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Spinach

Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce, bringing savory depth. Then add in the baby spinach, letting it wilt slightly to maintain that gorgeous green pop and a bit of fresh bite. This final touch balances the richness with a subtle vegetal note.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta and Season

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every morsel is generously coated with the creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to loosen it. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground pepper to your preference, then serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

Finish this dish with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and some freshly chopped basil or parsley. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a shiny appeal and enhances the flavor. These simple garnishes elevate your presentation and deliver fresh herbal notes that brighten each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also work wonderfully, offering a crunchy contrast and perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta in individual shallow bowls sprinkled with crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat. For a fun twist, stuff the pasta into roasted bell peppers or bake it briefly with a bubbly layer of mozzarella on top to create a comforting casserole-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken as it sits, so adding a splash of cream or pasta water when reheating helps revive its creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that cream-based sauces may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a suitable container, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a little cream or broth to loosen the sauce as needed, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps maintain the silky texture and keeps the flavors vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for this recipe?

Absolutely! Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil add an extra layer of richness and flavor. Just be sure to drain them well before adding to avoid making the sauce too oily.

Is it possible to make this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan to add cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Pasta shapes that hold sauce well work best, such as penne, fusilli, or fettuccine. These shapes capture the creamy sauce in their twists and tubes for a flavorful bite every time.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove, stir in freshly cooked pasta, and toss everything together to enjoy at its freshest.

How can I make the sauce thicker if it’s too runny?

If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, let it simmer gently uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce moisture. Alternatively, whisk in a small bit of flour or grated parmesan to thicken it up quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a perfect culinary hug, comforting yet vibrant with sunshine-rich tomatoes and fresh greens. It’s a dish that’s approachable for any skill level but impressive enough to serve guests. I encourage you to whip it up and savor its luscious flavors – it might just become your go-to pasta recipe for happy occasions and cozy nights alike.

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