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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta

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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta is a rich and comforting dish made with tender pasta tossed in a velvety pesto cream sauce with tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy entertaining, this flavorful pasta comes together in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta of choice
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Add the basil pesto and heavy cream, stirring until smooth and fully combined.
  5. Mix in the parmesan cheese and simmer gently until the sauce slightly thickens.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  7. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
  • Fresh spinach, kale, or mushrooms make excellent additions.
  • Use penne, rigatoni, rotini, or fettuccine for best results.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to maintain a creamy texture.
  • Freezing is not recommended because the cream sauce may separate.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/creamy-sun-dried-tomato-pesto-pasta/