This Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is bursting with flavor! With sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, it’s simple yet delicious. Plus, it’s quick to whip up for any meal.
You can have this on the table in no time! I love to add a sprinkle of cheese and some fresh herbs on top. It feels fancy but is super easy. Who doesn’t love that? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni is my go-to because it holds the sauce well! You can swap it for penne, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta if you need a substitute.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add rich flavor. If you have dried tomatoes, soak them in hot water for 20 minutes to soften them up before adding.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice sharpness. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a great alternative for a cheesy flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely in the sauce. You can use kale or arugula as substitutes if you prefer different greens.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy Without Curdling?
Getting a smooth, creamy sauce is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, always heat your cream gently over medium heat. This prevents it from curdling.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts completely for a velvety texture.
- If the sauce is too thick, slowly mix in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Remember to keep stirring as you mix the cheese and cream—it helps keep everything smooth and blended together!
Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 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)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Time Needed:
This easy sun-dried tomato pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want something quick yet satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water—this will help thicken your sauce later on!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Once the garlic is ready, toss in the sun-dried tomatoes. Cook them for about 2 minutes, just enough time to let their amazing flavor infuse into the oil!
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes so it can thicken slightly. Stir it gently as it simmers—you want it to become creamy and delicious.
5. Cheese It Up:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts completely and mixes well into the sauce, creating a smooth and rich texture.
6. Add the Spinach:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for about 1-2 minutes until they are wilted and incorporated into the sauce. This adds a fresh touch to your dish!
7. Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Carefully add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the sauce. If you find the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. It should coat the pasta nicely!
8. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your pasta with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is evenly seasoned.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your sun-dried tomato pasta immediately! Top it with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Dig in and savor the creamy, rich flavors of this easy sun-dried tomato pasta! 🍝
FAQ for Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is a great choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’d like a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. Keep in mind that non-dairy options might change the flavor slightly, so choose one that you enjoy!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, just warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the sun-dried tomatoes to ensure they cook through.
