Name: Sun Dried Tomato Pasta: 20-Minute Savory Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16-ounces dried penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large shallot, minced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 5 tablespoons butter; 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons lemon juice); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped; 2 1/2 cups Tuscan kale, roughly chopped (or baby spinach); 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnishing; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnishing)

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Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is my go-to recipe when I’m in need of a quick and delicious meal. This tasty dish combines sun-dried tomatoes and kale, resulting in a vibrant, healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With rich butter and Parmesan, this pasta is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a fantastic weeknight hero for several reasons. First, it’s a vegetarian sun-dried tomato pasta dish that caters to different dietary preferences. Second, it can be easily transformed into a sun-dried tomato pasta salad for a refreshing twist. You can also customize it by adding proteins like chicken or making it gluten-free. This dish is packed with nutrients from kale, and sun-dried tomatoes provide a punch of flavor that elevates any meal. Plus, the quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy evenings or unexpected guests. You won’t have to sacrifice taste for convenience!

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Ingredients for Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Gather these items:

16-ounces dried penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large shallot, minced
4 garlic cloves, minced
5 tablespoons butter
1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons lemon juice)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
2 1/2 cups Tuscan kale, roughly chopped (or baby spinach)
1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnishing
Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Fill a large pot with water. Salt the water so it tastes like the ocean. Bring it to a boil. Add in pasta and cook according to package directions until “al dente” (firm but not hard). IMPORTANT: Before draining the pasta, save 1 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Place a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil. When it shimmers, toss in the chopped shallots and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shallots are tender. Add butter, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the butter melts.
Step 3: Pour in 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Add 1-2 pinches kosher salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce begins to bubble and thicken. Add sun-dried tomatoes, kale, and cooked pasta. Stir everything together. If the sauce is too thin, add more pasta water. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the kale is just wilted. The sauce should coat the pasta nicely. Remove the pan from heat.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and stir to incorporate. Add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle more Parmesan on top and garnish with fresh basil.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to salt your pasta water generously; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
If you’re looking for a creamy sun-dried tomato pasta recipe, consider adding a splash of cream or using a creamy sun-dried tomato pasta sauce.
For a gluten-free sun-dried tomato pasta, substitute penne with gluten-free pasta.
Always save some pasta cooking water; it helps to adjust the sauce consistency.

Best Ways to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with grilled chicken for added protein or mix in some sun-dried tomato and basil pasta for a fresh flavor. This easy sun-dried tomato pasta dish is perfect for entertaining or casual weeknight dinners!

How to Store and Reheat Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

To store your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to help loosen the sauce. You can microwave it or reheat it in a skillet over low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

What is sun-dried tomato pasta?

Sun-dried tomato pasta is a flavorful dish made with pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and often mixed with green vegetables like kale or spinach. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that highlights the rich, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes.

Can I make sun-dried tomato pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve. This ensures the pasta stays perfectly al dente.

How do I avoid common mistakes with sun-dried tomato pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, be careful not to overcook the pasta and ensure you reserve some pasta water. This helps achieve the right sauce consistency, making every bite delicious!

Variations of Sun Dried Tomato Pasta You Can Try

Explore different variations of this dish! You can make a sun-dried tomato fettuccine or sun-dried tomato linguine for a twist. For a heartier option, try adding grilled chicken or a sun-dried tomato pesto pasta version. You can also substitute kale with spinach for a lighter touch. These adaptations maintain the delightful essence of the original recipe while allowing you to enjoy new flavors!

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or Creamy Tomato Sausage Soup. If you’re looking for a great dessert to pair with your meal, try Mini Cranberry Cheesecakes!