Description
Mediterranean magic unfolds in this quick sun-dried tomato pasta, blending rich flavors with creamy textures. Effortless one-pot comfort promises a delightful meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) penne pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
Dairy and Seasonings:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Extras:
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a spacious pot over medium heat, introducing minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Allow them to dance and release their aromatic essence for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour vegetable broth into the pot, bringing the liquid to a vigorous boil. Carefully introduce penne pasta, then lower temperature to medium-low. Gently simmer, occasionally stirring, until pasta reaches a perfect al dente texture, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Once pasta achieves ideal tenderness, incorporate heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle dried basil throughout the mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to elevate the flavor profile. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cheese to melt seamlessly into the pasta.
- Transition the pot from heat, preparing to plate. Artfully garnish with fresh basil or parsley, creating a visually appealing presentation. Serve immediately while the dish remains piping hot, ready to delight eager palates.
Notes
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version that maintains rich, creamy texture.
- Use gluten-free penne pasta to transform this recipe into a celiac-friendly meal without compromising flavor.
- Toast sun-dried tomatoes briefly before adding to intensify their sweet, tangy flavor profile and enhance overall dish complexity.
- Reserve some pasta water as a backup liquid if sauce becomes too thick, helping you control consistency smoothly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 646
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg