Summer Pasta: Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil
Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Summer Pasta featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines ease of preparation with a burst of taste that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.
Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Summer Pasta featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines ease of preparation with a burst of taste that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.
Summer Pasta: Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil
- Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight meals.
- Fresh ingredients combine for a delightful summer flavor.
- Vegetarian and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 oz of your favorite spaghetti or linguine
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1 cup, chopped
- Fresh Basil: 1 cup, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (optional)
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
How to Make
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Once the pasta is ready, drain it, reserving a bit of the cooking water. Add the pasta to the skillet, tossing it well with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Finally, fold in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
Make-Ahead
This pasta can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Just reheat in a skillet or in the microwave before enjoying.
Storing
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta without the cheese. Place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also makes for a great picnic option when served cold!
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Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Boil Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
Sauté Garlic
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
Add Tomatoes
Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Combine Pasta
Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water, then add it to the skillet.
Finish with Basil
Toss well and add basil, salt, and pepper.
Serve
Serve warm with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this Summer Pasta?
Yes. Gluten-free pasta works well; just cook it according to package instructions and adjust sauce if needed.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes. Cooked chicken, chickpeas, or white beans can be stirred in for extra protein.
What goes well with Summer Pasta?
Pair with a light green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and combine and reheat just before serving.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, when prepared without Parmesan cheese. It remains vegetarian with cheese, and can be made vegan by omitting cheese entirely.
