If you're on the hunt for a quick yet mouthwatering meal that transports you straight to the heart of Italy, look no further than this delightful Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that's bursting with rich flavors and vibrant colors, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, coated in a luscious olive oil and garlic sauce, with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes elevating every bite. Ready to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sun-dried tomatoes. If they are packed in oil, drain them and then chop them into small pieces. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Once the garlic is aromatic, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- When the pasta is cooked to your liking, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. Toss to combine, ensuring that the pasta is well coated with the olive oil and tomato mixture.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and incorporates into the pasta.
- Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to ensure even seasoning.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold onto sauces well, such as fusilli or penne, to enhance the overall texture of the dish.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you can find sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, they add a richer taste to the dish.
- Don't Rush the Garlic: Sauté the garlic until it’s fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your dish, so keep an eye on it!
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like pecorino or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique twist.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, toss in fresh basil or parsley just before serving. It brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
- Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh and hot. If you have leftovers, reheat gently with a splash of olive oil to bring back its creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 395kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 6mg
