Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 4 cloves garlic
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ¼-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk
not skim
- Salt and pepper
- 1 heaping cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2.5 ounces baby spinach leaves
- 1/3 cup fresh chopped basil
Directions
- 1
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to help keep noodles from sticking together. Set aside.
- 2
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Use a little bit of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to sauté them for 1-2 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds more.
- 3
Push to the side and add butter to the pan. Whisk in flour, stirring well for 1-2 minutes until golden (careful not to burn it). Add spices: dried basil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Taste and add salt, pepper, and additional spices as needed.
- 4
Gradually whisk in broth and milk, and cook for several minutes, until sauce slightly thickens. Stir in parmesan cheese. Stir in spinach.
- 5
Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Divide into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped basil, and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired.
Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
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About this Recipe
Craving a comforting, yet quick, pasta dish that feels anything but rushed? This creamy Sun-dried Tomato Pasta recipe is your answer for those busy weeknights when you need delicious flavor on the table fast. It's a satisfying meal that brings together rich, savory notes in every bite.
What makes this recipe truly shine is the harmonious blend of sun-dried tomatoes with fresh basil and tender spinach, all coated in a luxuriously creamy sauce. The thoughtful inclusion of both dried and fresh basil, alongside garlic and Italian seasoning, creates a depth of flavor that belies its simple preparation, transforming humble penne into something truly special.
When you sit down to this Sun-dried Tomato Pasta, expect a delightful interplay of textures and tastes. The penne noodles will be perfectly al dente, providing a satisfying chew, while the creamy sauce clings beautifully to every piece. You'll experience the intense, sweet-tart burst of sun-dried tomatoes, complemented by the fresh, herbaceous notes of basil and the gentle earthiness of wilted spinach. The hint of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth, inviting you back for more without overwhelming the palate. This dish delivers a satisfying richness that's both comforting and incredibly flavorful, making it an instant family favorite.
This versatile Sun-dried Tomato Pasta offers several avenues for customization. You can easily adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your preference. Feel free to experiment with the type of grated cheese, though freshly grated Parmesan offers the best melt and flavor. For a vegetarian option, ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you prefer a richer sauce, opt for whole milk, or a lighter consistency with 2% milk.
Serve this creamy penne dish as a stand-alone star for a fulfilling weeknight dinner. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to sop up every last drop of that incredible sauce, making for a truly complete meal.