This Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a quick and tasty meal! With just a few simple ingredients like pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic, you can create a flavorful dish in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rigatoni for its sturdy shape, but any pasta like penne or fettuccine works too! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great substitutes if you’re looking for something healthier!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: You can use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor. If these aren’t available, try desiccated ones rehydrated in hot water. They won’t be as rich, but they’ll still taste good!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or even cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect, but if you’re out, you can use frozen spinach! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Creating a creamy sauce without curdling is all about temperature control. Start on medium heat and avoid boiling the cream. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet before adding garlic. Keep it at medium heat.
- After adding the cream, bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring constantly to reduce the risk of curdling.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring until melted. This will help the sauce stay smooth and creamy. If it seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure a delicious, creamy sauce that coats your pasta perfectly! Enjoy preparing this delightful dish!
How to Make Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or pasta of choice
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (preferably oil-packed, drained)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (use sun-dried tomato oil if available)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, you will have a delicious and creamy pasta dish ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Mix in Cheese and Seasoning:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts and becomes creamy. Taste your sauce and season it with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice!
6. Add Spinach:
Now, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and stir them into the sauce. Cook just until the spinach wilts, which will take only a minute or two.
7. Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Add the drained pasta right into the sauce and gently toss everything to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your delicious sun-dried tomato pasta right away! Top it off with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor.
Enjoy this flavorful and creamy sun-dried tomato pasta that comes together in under 30 minutes! It’s perfect for satisfying your cravings for a quick but delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works great, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options. Just follow the cooking time on the package for best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream (like coconut or cashew cream) and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream to help revive the sauce consistency.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms can be great additions to boost the protein in this dish. Just cook the protein separately and toss it in with the pasta and sauce before serving.
