Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe Introduction Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a classic dish that offers a delightful burst of flavors. It beautifully marries the aromatic basil pesto with the tangy and slightly sweet sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a quick yet sophisticated meal that never fails to impress. Beyond its incredible taste, this dish is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a symphony on your palate. Dive into this recipe that promises ease of preparation and a gratifying culinary experience. Kitchen Equipment Required Large Pot Colander Large Skillet Wooden Spoon Food Processor or Blender Measuring Cups and Spoons Cooking Time Total estimated time: 30 minutes 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. The dish is deliciously aromatic, with a perfect balance of nutty, herbal, and tangy notes. 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

See Full Bio

AI SEO Marketing Analytics Education Writing Copywriting Science Technology Manufacturing Web analytics Data science