Delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta Recipe: Quick & Flavorful for Any Occasion

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of pasta tossed in a vibrant sauce, and sun-dried tomato pesto takes it to a whole new level.

This dish combines the rich, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes with the fresh essence of basil, creating a deliciously unique twist on traditional pesto.

It’s a quick meal that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight treat.

Ingredient List

To create my delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta, I gather the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces pasta (I prefer linguine or spaghetti)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil and roughly chopped)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves (washed and dried)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted for depth of flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup olive oil (extra virgin is best for richness)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

With these ingredients, I can whip up a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   In a large pot of salted boiling water cook 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions. I usually aim for al dente texture—tender but with a slight bite. Once cooked drain the pasta reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Prepare the Pesto
   In a food processor combine 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes 1 cup of fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
3. Add Olive Oil
   While the food processor is running slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Continue to blend until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed.
4. Combine Pasta and Pesto
   In a large mixing bowl add the cooked pasta and pour the sun-dried tomato pesto over it. If the pesto seems too thick add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season
   Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. I like to go easy on the salt since the Parmesan adds a bit of saltiness too.
6. Serve
   Divide the pasta into serving bowls. I like to garnish each bowl with extra grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch.
7. Enjoy
   Grab a fork and dig into this deliciously vibrant bowl of sun-dried tomato pesto pasta. I guarantee you will love the rich flavors and the lovely aroma that fills your kitchen.

Recipe Notes & Variations

• Pasta Choices: While I prefer linguine or spaghetti for this dish, feel free to use any pasta shape you love. Penne or fettuccine can add a delightful twist.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I recommend using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and richness. If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate them before blending.
• Nut Alternatives: Pine nuts give a wonderful flavor, but if you want a more budget-friendly option, try walnuts or almonds. Toasting them enhances their flavor.
• Herb Variations: Fresh basil is key here, but you can mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or arugula for a different taste. Oregano can provide an interesting kick too.
• Cheese Substitutes: Grated Parmesan is traditional, yet you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option.
• Add-Ins: Vegetables like spinach, roasted red peppers, or sautéed zucchini can be delightful additions. They add color and nutrients to your pasta.
• Protein Boost: If you’re looking to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp works perfectly. Toss them in after mixing the pesto with the pasta.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to maintain moisture.
• Freezing Pesto: If you have leftover pesto, freezing it in ice cube trays is a smart move. I enjoy pulling out a cube for a quick pasta fix or using it as a sandwich spread.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta, I love to get creative. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs
   I like to add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top of each serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
2. Add Protein
   For a heartier meal, I often include grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini. These additions pack the dish with nutrients and flavor.
3. Incorporate a Side Salad
   A fresh side salad pairs beautifully with the pasta. I enjoy a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
4. Serve with Garlic Bread
   I can’t resist serving this dish with warm, crispy garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto sauce on my plate.
5. Cheese Choices
   While I typically use Parmesan, I sometimes like to experiment with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. They complement the sun-dried tomatoes wonderfully.
6. Wine Pairing
   For those occasions when I want to make the meal feel special, I reach for a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti. The wine enhances the rich flavors of the dish.
7. Consider Serving Temperature
   I enjoy this pasta dish both hot and at room temperature. If I make it ahead of time, I let it cool slightly and serve it as a vibrant pasta salad during summer gatherings.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for my delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta.

This information is based on a serving size of one bowl, which I typically consider to be about 1/4 of the total recipe.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	520
Total Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	6g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	380mg
Total Carbohydrates	54g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	4g
Protein	15g

• Calories: Providing energy for those busy nights.
• Total Fat: The healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts contribute to heart health.
• Protein: Parmesan cheese and pasta boost the protein content, making it satisfying.
• Fiber: Sun-dried tomatoes add a nice fiber component, supporting digestive health.

Conclusion

I can’t help but feel excited about making Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta. It’s such a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to the table.

Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering this pasta never disappoints.

With its versatility and ease of preparation it’s a recipe I find myself returning to time and again.

Plus the health benefits add a nice touch to this delicious meal. So grab your ingredients and dive into this tasty experience. I promise you won’t regret it!

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