Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Ingredients

• 350g (12 oz) pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
• 100g (3.5 oz or 2 cups) fresh basil leaves
• 50g (1.75 oz or 1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• 50g (1.75 oz or 1/3 cup) pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 120ml (4 fl oz or 1/2 cup) extra virgin olive oil
• 150g (5.3 oz or 1 cup) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 50g (1.75 oz or 1/4 cup) sliced black olives for garnish
• Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt and the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto

While the pasta is cooking, combine the fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor or blender. Pulse until the mixture becomes a coarse paste. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feed tube until a smooth, creamy consistency is achieved. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavor by adding more cheese or oil if necessary to reach your desired richness.

Step 3: Sauté the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are heated through and slightly softened. This step enriches their flavors and prepares them for blending with the pasta.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sun-dried tomatoes. Pour the freshly made pesto over the top and toss everything together using a wooden spoon until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. If desired, add sliced black olives and fresh basil for an enhanced visual and flavor profile. Serve immediately.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste the pasta before serving and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You might want to add a little extra salt or pepper based on your preference. For an added zing, consider a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Conclusion

With this Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe, you’ve successfully created a meal that’s as vibrant in color as it is in flavor. This dish celebrates the harmonious combination of classic ingredients that define Italian cuisine. Quick to prepare and delightful to taste, it’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. As you continue your culinary journey, let this recipe remind you of the endless potential simple ingredients hold when approached with creativity and passion. Enjoy every bite!

Wyatt Travis Creator of AI MultiPrompter

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