Description
Sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is a quick and flavorful dish made with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this easy recipe can be served warm or cold for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts. Pulse until roughly chopped.
- Add the Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
- Season the Pesto: Add red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Blend again.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the drained pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Vegan Option: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
- Veggie Additions: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, pasta
- Method: Boiling, Blending, Tossing
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: Sun-dried tomato pasta, pesto pasta, quick pasta recipe, Italian pasta dish, easy dinner recipe