Ever thought of elevating your pasta game? This sun dried tomato pesto pasta recipe is your answer. It’s packed with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a hit with families everywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Sun-dried tomato pesto adds a delicious, savory twist to classic basil pesto
- The recipe can be made in just 20 minutes for a quick and easy weeknight meal
- Customizable with a variety of protein options and add-ins to suit your dietary preferences
- Leftover pesto can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for future use
- Pair the sun-dried tomato pesto pasta with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying Italian-inspired feast
Introduction to Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta
Get ready to taste the flavors of an Italian villa with our sun dried tomato pesto pasta. This dish is a mix of sun-dried tomatoes and basil pesto. It’s creamy and satisfying, great for any meal.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Sun dried tomato pesto pasta is a flavor explosion that’s easy to make. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, savory taste to the pesto. It’s also vegan and dairy-free, perfect for plant-based diets.
“The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of umami that takes the pesto to the next level, while the pasta provides a satisfying base.”
It’s perfect as a main dish or as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or sandwiches. This sun-dried tomato pesto will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients for Sun Dried Tomato Pesto
The main ingredients for a tasty sun dried tomato pesto are:
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Walnuts or pine nuts
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
These pesto ingredients mix to make a unique and tasty pesto. The sun-dried tomatoes add a strong, sweet tomato flavor. This flavor works well with the other ingredients.
“The sun-dried tomato pesto is the star of this pasta dish, adding a burst of flavor in every bite.”
Together, these sun-dried tomato pesto ingredients make a creamy sauce. You can use it in many dishes, not just pasta. It’s great on sandwiches or with roasted vegetables.
Making this sun-dried tomato pesto recipe is easy. It turns your meals into something vibrant and delicious. It’s a must-have in your kitchen.
How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pesto
Making sun dried tomato pesto at home is easy and fun. Just mix a few fresh ingredients to create a tasty pesto. It’s perfect for adding a Mediterranean twist to your pasta dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a food processor, mix 1/2 cup (4 oz.) of sun-dried tomatoes, 1/3 cup of toasted pine nuts or walnuts, 1/3 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pulse the ingredients until they’re broken down but still have some texture, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- With the food processor running, slowly add 1/2 cup of high-quality olive oil until the pesto is smooth.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to get the flavors right.
This quick and easy pesto recipe brings together sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh basil. It’s a fantastic homemade pesto for many dishes, from pasta to sandwiches.
“This sun-dried tomato pesto is a game-changer! It’s packed with bold flavors and so easy to make at home.”
With just a few simple steps, you can make a batch of flavorful homemade pesto. Try different nuts, herbs, and variations to find your favorite sun-dried tomato pesto recipe.
Cooking the Pasta
To make the perfect pesto pasta recipe, start by cooking the pasta. You can pick from many shapes like farfalle, penne, or spaghetti. Just follow the package directions and cook it in salted water until it’s al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes.
When there’s just 30 seconds left, toss in some fresh spinach. This lets the spinach blend in well with the pasta for pesto. After cooking, save about 1/2 cup of the starchy water. Then, drain the pasta and spinach in a colander.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer, such as farfalle, penne, or spaghetti.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water.
- Add spinach to the pot during the last 30 seconds of cooking to allow it to wilt.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Now that the pasta and spinach are ready, it’s time to make the creamy cooking pasta sauce. This sauce will bring everything together.
Preparing the Creamy Pesto Sauce
To make the creamy pesto sauce for your sun-dried tomato pesto pasta, start by sautéing garlic in butter and olive oil. This mix creates a base for the bold flavors to come.
Then, add the pesto pasta sauce and heavy cream to the pan. Stir gently to mix the flavors and thicken the sauce. Keep some pasta water aside to thin it out and get the right creamy pesto texture.
While simmering, grate in some Parmesan cheese. This Italian cheese adds richness and depth to the sauce, making it irresistible.
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning. Make sure the creamy pesto sauce is balanced and ready to coat your pasta.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Sun-dried tomato pesto | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Pasta cooking water | As needed |
Now that your creamy sauce is ready, you’re almost there. Enjoy a delicious sun-dried tomato pesto pasta that will please your taste buds.
sun dried tomato pesto pasta
Make your pasta night special with this sun dried tomato pesto pasta recipe. It mixes homemade or store-bought pesto with sun-dried tomatoes. This mix creates a pasta dish that’s hard to resist.
To make this pesto pasta, start by mixing cooked pasta and wilted spinach with the pesto sauce. Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and taste. Put the pasta in bowls, top with fresh basil, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
| Nutrition Facts | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 721 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Protein | 37 g |
| Fat | 41 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19 g |
| Cholesterol | 153 mg |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
| Potassium | 851 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Vitamin A | 1523 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6 mg |
| Calcium | 173 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
This sun dried tomato pesto pasta is a flavor explosion. The creamy pesto and tangy sun-dried tomatoes blend perfectly. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a dinner party.
“This sun dried tomato pesto pasta is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is absolutely divine.”
Customizing with Add-ins
This sun-dried tomato pesto pasta can be customized with many add-ins. For those who eat meat, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage. For those who prefer plants, top it with roasted chickpeas, sautéed mushrooms, or tofu or tempeh. These options make the dish a complete and balanced meal.
Protein Options for Meat and Plant-based Diets
For a more filling pesto pasta with protein, consider these options:
- Grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts
- Sautéed shrimp or scallops
- Spicy Italian sausage, sliced and sautéed
- Roasted chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian pesto pasta
- Crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based pesto pasta
- Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for pesto pasta add-ins
These protein-rich options turn this sun-dried tomato pesto pasta into a full meal. It’s perfect for both meat lovers and those who follow a plant-based diet.
| Protein Option | Serving Size | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Breasts | 4 oz per serving | Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then grill until cooked through. |
| Sautéed Shrimp | 6-8 shrimp per serving | Sauté shrimp in a bit of olive oil with garlic, lemon, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. |
| Spicy Italian Sausage | 2-3 oz per serving | Remove casings and sauté the sausage until browned and cooked through. |
| Roasted Chickpeas | 1/2 cup per serving | Toss canned or cooked chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and your favorite seasonings, then roast at 400°F until crispy. |
| Crumbled Tofu | 1/4 cup per serving | Sauté firm or extra-firm tofu, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. |
“Experimenting with different pesto pasta with protein or vegetarian pesto pasta options is a great way to keep this dish exciting and tailored to your preferences.”
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it early and enjoy it later. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:
To store the pesto pasta, put it in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. This way, your pesto pasta will stay tasty for days.
You can also store the pesto separately for other dishes. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Or, freeze it for up to 2 months. Use it on roasted veggies, sandwiches, or as a dip for bread.
With these tips, you can enjoy sun-dried tomato pesto pasta anytime. It’s great for meal prep or having a tasty pasta dish ready. This recipe will quickly become a favorite!
“The leftover pesto can be a game-changer in the kitchen. It’s so versatile and adds so much flavor to a variety of dishes.”
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is a versatile dish. It goes well with many side dishes. Try it with a fresh garden salad and a light vinaigrette. The salad’s bright flavors balance the pesto’s richness.
For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. The pesto’s bold taste complements the protein. You can also serve it with roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. This adds color and nutrients to your dish.
Complementary Side Dishes
- Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus)
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Sautéed spinach or kale
- Parmesan-crusted roasted potatoes
| Pesto Pasta Pairing | Description |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken | The bold flavors of the sun-dried tomato pesto complement the savory, chargrilled taste of grilled chicken, creating a satisfying and well-balanced meal. |
| Sautéed Shrimp | The pesto pasta pairs beautifully with sautéed shrimp, with the seafood’s delicate sweetness and the pesto’s richness working in perfect harmony. |
| Baked Cod or Salmon | The bright, acidic notes of the pesto complement the delicate flavors of baked white fish or salmon, making for a light and healthy main course. |
Pairing the sun-dried tomato pesto pasta with various side dishes and proteins makes a complete meal. It suits different tastes and dietary needs.
Nutritional Benefits of Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta
This sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is not just tasty. It’s also packed with nutrients. The main ingredient, sun-dried tomatoes, are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These can boost your health.
Sun-dried tomatoes are loaded with lycopene. This antioxidant fights inflammation and keeps your skin healthy. The basil and olive oil in the pesto add more health benefits, making it a nutritious choice.
The pasta itself has complex carbs and fiber. These help you feel full and happy. The recipe also avoids blood sugar spikes, thanks to no cheese or nuts.
To make it even better, the recipe adds hemp hearts. They’re a complete protein with 11 grams per 3-tablespoon serving. This makes the dish vegan-friendly and rich in omega-3s.
This sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is a balanced and satisfying meal. It fights inflammation and keeps blood sugar stable. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion, with its delicious taste and health benefits.
“Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, lycopene, and antioxidants, making them a powerhouse ingredient in this pesto pasta dish.”
Variations and Alternative Recipes
While the sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is tasty, you can make it your own. Try different pesto pasta variations and recipes. Change up the pasta shape, like fusilli or penne, to find what you like best.
Play with the pesto ingredients too. Mix sun-dried and fresh tomatoes, or use almonds instead of walnuts. This way, you can meet different tastes and needs.
The pesto is great for more than just pasta. Use it on pizza, as a veggie dip, or as a marinade for meats or tofu. It’s a versatile ingredient that can spice up many dishes.
“The sun-dried tomato pesto is a game-changer – it adds such a rich, savory depth to any dish it touches.”
Exploring Alternative Pesto Pasta Dishes
- Pesto Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
- Pesto Pasta Bake with Chicken and Spinach
- Pesto Pasta with Grilled Shrimp and Asparagus
- Pesto Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage
- Pesto Pasta with Sautéed Mushrooms and Arugula
Creating tasty pesto pasta dishes is all about having fun. Try new ingredients and flavors. This way, you can make pesto pasta that’s uniquely yours and will please your palate.
Conclusion
This sun-dried tomato pesto pasta recipe is a must-try. It’s full of flavor and easy to make. The creamy pesto, paired with al dente pasta and fresh tomatoes, makes a delicious dish. It’s perfect for any occasion.
If you love pesto or want to try something new, this easy pesto pasta is a winner. It’s versatile, customizable, and has amazing flavors. Plus, it’s quick to make and healthy, making it a great choice for any meal.
Don’t be afraid to add your own twist to this sun-dried tomato pesto pasta recipe. Try different ingredients and ways to serve it. This way, you can make it your own and enjoy the flavors over and over again.
FAQ
What is sun-dried tomato pesto pasta?
Sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is a tasty dish. It mixes sun-dried tomatoes with basil pesto. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s great for a quick dinner or to impress guests.
What are the key ingredients in sun-dried tomato pesto?
The main ingredients are sun-dried tomatoes, walnuts or pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. You also need fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
How do you make the sun-dried tomato pesto?
To make the pesto, blend sun-dried tomatoes, nuts, Parmesan, basil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Slowly add olive oil until it’s smooth.
What type of pasta can you use for sun-dried tomato pesto pasta?
You can choose any pasta shape you like. Farfalle, penne, or spaghetti work well.
How do you prepare the creamy pesto sauce?
Start by sautéing garlic in butter and olive oil. Then, add the pesto and heavy cream. Stir in some pasta water for a creamy sauce.
Can you customize the sun-dried tomato pesto pasta with different add-ins?
Yes, you can add various toppings. For meat lovers, try grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage. For vegans, add roasted chickpeas, sautéed mushrooms, or tofu.
How long can you store the leftover sun-dried tomato pesto pasta?
Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pesto for later use.
What are some nutritional benefits of sun-dried tomato pesto pasta?
This dish is nutritious. Sun-dried tomatoes are full of antioxidants and vitamins. The basil and olive oil have anti-inflammatory properties. The pasta adds complex carbs and fiber.