Description
This Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that combines the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with a luscious creamy sauce and tender fettuccine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings Italian flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
Sauce
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ยฝ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or pasta of your choice according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ยฝ cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sautรฉ for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes to release their flavors into the oil and garlic.
- Create the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to coat each strand evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for more flavorful results.
- Reserving pasta water helps thin out the sauce without losing flavor.
- Feel free to swap fettuccine for your favorite pasta shape.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but expect a thinner sauce.
- Fresh basil adds a lovely fresh aroma but is optional.
