Sun-Dried Creamy Tomato Pasta: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

Sinking your fork into a bowl of Sun-Dried Creamy Tomato Pasta feels like capturing the warmth of the Mediterranean sun in every bite. The rich tang of sun-dried tomatoes, combined with the velvety smoothness of cream and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Every mouthful delivers layers of flavor — from the sweet intensity of tomatoes to the gentle heat of garlic and the savory notes of Parmesan.

Unlike many elaborate pasta dishes, this recipe offers gourmet flavor without complicated steps or long prep times. It’s the perfect choice for busy evenings when you crave something indulgent yet easy to make. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or a quick family dinner, this creamy pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients along with their approximate calorie counts per serving:

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (per serving)
Pasta (penne or fettuccine)	200g	350
Olive oil	2 tbsp	240
Garlic, minced	3 cloves	15
Onion, finely chopped	1 small	40
Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained & chopped)	1/2 cup	140
Tomato paste	2 tbsp	30
Heavy cream	1 cup	400
Parmesan cheese, grated	1/2 cup	220
Salt	to taste	0
Black pepper	to taste	5
Fresh basil, chopped	2 tbsp	5

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Base:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and golden.
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
   Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors deepen and meld together.
4. Pour in the Cream:
   Lower the heat and slowly add the heavy cream. Stir well to create a smooth, rich sauce. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Season and Add Cheese:
   Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely, forming a silky, creamy sauce.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
7. Finish and Garnish:
   Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon pairs perfectly with this creamy tomato sauce.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
• Go Vegan: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and a vegan cheese substitute.
• Extra Vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms add texture, color, and nutrients.
• Boost Flavor: A splash of white wine or a spoonful of pesto can enhance the sauce beautifully.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480
Protein	13g
Fat	29g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	5g

Serving Suggestions

Sun-Dried Creamy Tomato Pasta pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
• A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
• A chilled glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

For a more indulgent experience, sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of pasta for Sun-Dried Creamy Tomato Pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even rigatoni work great for this dish. Short pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce well, while long noodles give it a more elegant restaurant-style feel.

2. How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

To make the sauce richer, simmer the cream a bit longer before adding the pasta. You can also stir in an extra tablespoon of Parmesan or a small knob of butter for added silkiness.

3. Can I make Sun-Dried Creamy Tomato Pasta without cream?

Yes, you can! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, half-and-half, or even cashew cream for a lighter (or dairy-free) version. It’ll still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.

4. How long can I store leftover pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the smooth texture.

5. Is Sun-Dried Creamy Tomato Pasta vegetarian?

Yes! The base recipe is completely vegetarian. Just make sure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly, as some types may contain animal rennet.

Conclusion

Sun-Dried Creamy Tomato Pasta is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create magic on your plate. With its creamy, tangy sauce and the deep, savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or elegant weekend meals, this pasta combines convenience with luxury — no complicated techniques required.