Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with new flavors? Look no further than this delightful Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Creamy recipe. Imagine the creaminess of coconut milk, the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, the sweetness of balsamic vinegar, and a burst of herby goodness all coming together to create a luscious pasta experience that will make you forget about your old mac and cheese routine. Best of all, you only need a few pantry staples to whip this up in no time.

I stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy Sunday with nearly empty fridge shelves, craving something luxurious yet simple. Now, it’s become a go-to favorite whenever I need a dish that balances comfort with bold flavors. The secret ingredient? Sun-dried tomatoes! Their intense flavor transforms every bite, making this dish a hit at family gatherings, birthdays, or just cozy nights in. Guests always ask for the recipe, and with good reason.

So, if you’re looking to impress your taste buds and guests alike, this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Creamy is the answer. Whether you stick with the fettuccine or switch it up with your favorite pasta shape, this dish promises a satisfying meal that marries comfort with freshness. Get ready for requests for seconds and compliments galore with this delightful pasta creation.

Quick Benefits

  • Creamy and Luscious Flavor: Indulge in a comforting and vibrant pasta dish with a rich, creamy coconut sauce that features tangy sun-dried tomatoes and sweet balsamic vinegar.
  • Pantry-Friendly & Easy to Make: Whip up this luxurious meal with just a handful of pantry staples on busy weeknights or when your fridge is running low on ingredients.
  • Versatile Substitutions: Customize the dish to suit your preferences by swapping the pasta shape, using alternative creams like cashew or oat, adjusting sauce thickness, and enhancing savory notes with vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe Recipe

  • Luscious Creaminess: Creamy coconut milk, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar create a luxurious and rich sauce that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
  • Bold Flavors: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and herbs delivers a vibrant burst of flavors that will elevate your pasta game.
  • Easy and Quick: With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time for a delicious weeknight meal.
  • Adaptable: You can customize this recipe by using your favorite pasta shape, swapping coconut milk for cashew or oat cream, and adding extra herbs or vegan parmesan for a personalized touch.
  • Versatile Leftovers: Store any leftovers for up to three days and easily reheat them on the stove with a splash of water or plant milk to maintain the creamy consistency.
  • Mediterranean Flavors: Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, this pasta offers a vegan twist on classic Italian dishes, making it a delightful and flavorful option for any dinner table.
  • Complete Meal: Add white beans, lentils, a green salad, or some gluten-free bread to make this dish a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a sleepover, or a cozy dinner, this sun-dried tomato pasta will impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 400 g gluten-free fettuccine
  • 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 10 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 60 g flat leaf parsley, chopped
  • 2 cups baby arugula
  • Salt, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 240 ml water or vegetable broth
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Vegan parmesan, optional, for serving
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 200 g full-fat canned coconut milk, thick cream only (approximately half a can)

Pro Tips for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Pro Tip 1: Sun-dried tomatoes are the flavor heroes in this dish. Their intense flavor transforms the entire pasta. For an extra burst of umami, consider adding more sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of the oil they come packed in.

Pro Tip 2: To elevate the creaminess of the sauce, opt for cashew cream or a thick oat-based cream as a dairy-free alternative to coconut milk. Simmering the sauce longer or adding extra tomato paste can help thicken the sauce and intensify its flavors.

Pro Tip 3: Leftovers can be easily revived by gently reheating on the stove with a splash of water or broth. To maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce, stir gently while reheating to prevent the noodles from breaking. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complement the rich and vibrant flavors of the pasta.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook Fettuccine

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook gluten-free fettuccine in the boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or oil if preferred. Sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for 2 minutes, adding more liquid as necessary to avoid sticking.

Step 3: Caramelize Flavour Base

Combine Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste in the skillet. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized and aromatic.

Step 4: Simmer Tomato Sauce

Add cherry tomatoes and water to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes are softened. Use a spoon to smash the tomatoes and release their juices.

Step 5: Enrich and Thicken Sauce

Add the thick coconut milk and nutritional yeast to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Combine the drained fettuccine with baby arugula in the skillet, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated and the arugula is slightly wilted.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped flat leaf parsley and vegan parmesan, if desired.

Storage Tips

To store the sun-dried tomato pasta, place any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken when chilled, but you can easily revive it by adding a splash of water or plant-based milk and reheating gently on the stovetop until creamy. Be sure to stir gently to prevent breaking the noodles and ensure a delicious texture when serving.

For those looking to customize the dish, feel free to swap out the fettuccine for other gluten-free pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. To make the sauce even creamier, consider using alternatives to coconut milk such as cashew cream or oat cream. Additionally, if you prefer different herbs, a blend of dried basil and oregano can be substituted for Italian seasoning, offering a unique twist to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different pasta shape, such as spaghetti or penne, feel free to use it in place of fettuccine. These shapes will still hold the creamy sauce well and offer a slightly different texture to the dish.

For a different creamy base, you can swap the coconut milk with cashew cream or a thick oat-based cream. This substitution will provide a similar creaminess while offering a slightly different flavor profile to the sauce.

To thicken the sauce further, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid content. Additionally, adding extra tomato paste will not only increase thickness but also intensify the flavor of the dish.

While the recipe suggests vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast as optional additions, they can enhance the savory notes of the dish if desired. Additionally, consider serving the pasta with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to complement the creamy and robust flavors of the dish perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this luscious Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Creamy, try topping it with a generous sprinkle of crispy, garlic-infused breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor. The crunchy contrast will elevate the dish and add a delightful crunch to each bite. Additionally, consider garnishing the pasta with freshly torn basil leaves and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving to enhance its freshness and aromatic profile.

To make this dish even heartier and more satisfying, serve the Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Creamy in individual baked spaghetti squash “boats.” Simply roast spaghetti squash halves until tender, then fill them with the creamy pasta mixture, top with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan, and broil briefly until golden and bubbly. This presentation not only adds a fun twist to the meal but also provides a nutritious and visually appealing serving option that is sure to impress your guests.

FAQs for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?

Yes, any favorite pasta shape, such as spaghetti or penne, works well for holding the creamy sauce.

Can I substitute coconut milk with another creamy base?

Cashew cream or a thick oat-based cream can be used in place of coconut milk for similar creaminess.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce liquid. Adding extra tomato paste also increases thickness and intensity.

Is there an optional ingredient that enhances the dish’s flavor?

Absolutely. The dish is tasty on its own, but vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast boost savory notes if desired.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Creamy recipe is a delightful fusion of comforting and vibrant flavors that will surely become a favorite in your meal rotation. The luxurious creaminess of the coconut milk, the tanginess of the tomatoes, and the herby goodness all come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

Don’t hesitate to make this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Creamy your own by exploring different pasta shapes, cream alternatives, and additional ingredients like beans or lentils for a protein boost. Embrace the versatility of this recipe and enjoy the process of creating a meal that brings both comfort and freshness to your table. Get ready to savor every bite and embrace the joy of sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Indulge in luxurious, creamy sun-dried tomato pasta bursting with vibrant flavors and a touch of Mediterranean charm; a comforting vegan dish to elevate weeknight dinners.
Prep Time15 Minutes
Cook Time25 Minutes
Total Time40 Minutes
CuisineItalian-inspired
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 400 g gluten-free fettuccine
  • 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 10 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 60 g flat leaf parsley, chopped
  • 2 cups baby arugula
  • Salt, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 240 ml water or vegetable broth
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Vegan parmesan, optional, for serving
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 200 g full-fat canned coconut milk, thick cream only (approximately half a can)

Instructions

  1. Cook Fettuccine: 1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook gluten-free fettuccine in the boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or oil if preferred. Sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for 2 minutes, adding more liquid as necessary to avoid sticking.
  3. Caramelize Flavour Base: Combine Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste in the skillet. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized and aromatic.
  4. Simmer Tomato Sauce: Add cherry tomatoes and water to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes are softened. Use a spoon to smash the tomatoes and release their juices.
  5. Enrich and Thicken Sauce: Add the thick coconut milk and nutritional yeast to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
  6. Combine Pasta with Sauce: Combine the drained fettuccine with baby arugula in the skillet, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated and the arugula is slightly wilted.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped flat leaf parsley and vegan parmesan, if desired.