### Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A Quick and Tasty Weeknight Meal
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a scrumptious dish that can be made in merely 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for hectic weeknights. The recipe showcases penne pasta coated in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce, enhanced by the robust flavor of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. This comforting dish is not only swift to prepare but also brimming with savory delights that will please your palate.
#### Flavor Profile
The meal features a creamy, garlicky sauce elevated by tangy sun-dried tomatoes and rich Parmesan cheese. The blend of these flavors results in a cozy and appetizing pasta dish that is bound to be a hit.
#### Skill Level
This recipe is simple enough for beginners, allowing anyone to create a tasty dinner in a flash. The clear instructions and forgiving ingredients mean that even inexperienced cooks can achieve excellent outcomes.
#### Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing the pasta with grilled chicken, salmon, or Italian sausage. A side of garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad would pair beautifully with the dish.
### Ingredients and Easy Alternatives
– **Penne or Other Medium Pasta**: Ridged pasta like penne hold the creamy sauce nicely. Options include rotini, rigatoni, shells, or farfalle.
– **Sun-Dried Tomatoes**: Choose tomatoes packed in oil instead of dry-packed. Dice them into small pieces for even flavor distribution.
– **Sun-Dried Tomato Oil**: This oil is essential for developing flavor in the sauce. Begin with 3 tablespoons and adjust as necessary.
– **Half-and-Half**: For a lighter sauce, opt for half-and-half. For a richer alternative, use heavy cream.
– **Parmesan**: Finely grated Parmesan melts seamlessly. You may also use Asiago or a Romano and Mozzarella mix.
### How to Prepare Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Boil the pasta until al dente, reserving a bit of pasta water.
2. **Sauté Garlic and Herbs**: In a skillet, heat sun-dried tomato oil and sauté garlic and herbs before adding the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
3. **Create the Sauce**: Mix in the half-and-half mixture, then combine with the drained pasta and Parmesan cheese.
4. **Adjust Consistency**: Gradually incorporate reserved pasta water to reach your preferred sauce thickness.
### Tips for Success
– Whisk cornstarch into cold half-and-half to avoid lumps in the sauce.
– Maintain medium heat to prevent burning the garlic, which can create bitterness.
– Ensure sun-dried tomatoes are evenly chopped for consistent flavor in every bite.
– Introduce Parmesan cheese when the sauce is hot but not boiling to ensure smooth melting.
– Sample and adjust seasoning with salt after incorporating cheese and tomatoes.
### Storage and Leftovers
Store any remaining pasta in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk, half-and-half, or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing this dish is not recommended.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 563
– **Carbohydrates**: 81g
– **Protein**: 19g
– **Fat**: 19g
– **Sodium**: 541mg
– **Fiber**: 6g
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is not only a quick and straightforward meal but also a flavorful dish that the entire family can enjoy. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or hosting a gathering, this recipe is bound to impress!