As a seasoned food enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for fresh and exciting ways to elevate classic dishes. In this blog post, I’m excited to share with you my take on Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto. With its harmonious blend of chewy pasta coated in a luscious, sun-kissed tomato sauce, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets behind this culinary masterpiece.
Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Equipment
- 1 small bowl
- 1 food processor or blender
Ingredients
- ½ cup un-dried tomatoes (fresh, if possible – if not get the kind packed in water or brine, not the kind packed in oil)
- ½ cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
- 1 ½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 8 ounces whole wheat linguini (or other pasta, cooked and kept warm)
Instructions
- Combine the sun-dried tomatoes with 1/2 cup hot water in a small bowl and soak for 3 to 5 minutes (or until tomatoes are soft and pliable). Drain the tomatoes, but reserve the liquid.
- Combine the tomatoes, basil, oil, cheese, oregano and garlic in a food processor or blender. Process, adding enough reserved liquid, until the mixture is a medium/thick “saucy” consistency.
- Spoon over the pasta and toss to coat; serve immediately (I usually add mine back into the pot the the pasta was cooked in and mix together that way to warm it through a little.)
- Sprinkle with a little additional parmesan and garnish with a fresh basil leaf, if desired.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil for the most intense and robust flavor.
- Toast the pine nuts lightly before adding them to the pesto to enhance their nuttiness.
- Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. Adding a splash of this starchy water to the pesto can help create a smoother sauce that clings to the pasta better.
- For a creamier texture, blend the sun-dried tomato pesto ingredients for a slightly longer duration, ensuring a silky and well-emulsified sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente, where the pasta is cooked but still has a slight bite.
- Adding too much salt to the pasta water can make the dish overly salty since the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese already contribute saltiness. Taste the pesto before seasoning the pasta to avoid an overly seasoned final dish.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when toasting pine nuts or sautéing vegetables. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and hinder proper browning.
Serving Suggestions
When to Serve Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:
This versatile dish is perfect for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends, preparing a romantic date night meal, or simply craving a comforting homemade dinner, Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto fits the bill. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special celebrations.
Recommended Sides, Garnishes, and Beverages:
To complement the flavors of Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Additionally, a side of garlic bread or toasted bruschetta pairs beautifully, adding a delightful crunch and additional depth of flavor.
For garnishes, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh basil leaves can elevate the dish’s presentation and taste. The nutty and salty notes of the Parmesan harmonize perfectly with the sun-dried tomato pesto.
To complete the dining experience, pair this pasta dish with a glass of light-bodied red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Chianti. The fruity and earthy undertones of these wines enhance the flavors of the sun-dried tomato pesto, creating a delightful combination.
Different Ways to Serve:
While Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto is delicious on its own, you can also get creative with how you serve it. Try incorporating grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or eggplant for added texture and a burst of freshness. You can also top the pasta with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes to add a hint of crunch or heat, respectively.
For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken breast or sautéed shrimp to the pasta. The protein will make it a satisfying and well-rounded dish. Alternatively, you can serve the pasta as a side dish alongside grilled steak or roasted chicken.
Experiment with these serving suggestions and let your culinary instincts guide you. The beauty of Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto lies in its versatility, allowing you to create a personalized dining experience.
FAQs about Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Can I store leftover?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the pasta’s texture, reheat it gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta cooking water. However, keep in mind that the pesto might darken slightly due to oxidation. Simply stir well before reheating and serving.
Can I make the sun-dried tomato pesto in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sun-dried tomato pesto up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify. When ready to use, give it a good stir before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.
Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes?
While sun-dried tomatoes provide a distinct flavor and concentrated sweetness, you can use fresh tomatoes as a substitute if needed. However, the taste and texture of the dish will be different. To mimic the intensity of sun-dried tomatoes, roast fresh tomatoes in the oven until they are slightly dried and caramelized.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto recipe is vegetarian-friendly. However, if you’re serving it to guests with dietary restrictions, always double-check the ingredients to ensure they align with their specific dietary needs.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from ingredients like rice, corn, or quinoa. Ensure that all other ingredients,including the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, are also gluten-free. Follow the cooking instructions on the gluten-free pasta package to ensure proper cooking time and texture.
In this delectable blog post, discover the secrets behind Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto. From cooking tips to serving suggestions, we have you covered. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more culinary inspiration!