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Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe Easy Homemade with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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A quick and easy creamy pesto pasta with sun-dried tomatoes that delivers rich, comforting flavors perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
  • ½ cup (75 g) sun-dried tomatoes, preferably packed in oil
  • ¾ cup (180 g) fresh basil pesto, homemade or store-bought
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ½ cup (75 g) chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and aromatic.
  3. Lower the heat and stir in ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream, warming for about 2 minutes. Add ¾ cup (180 g) pesto and mix until the sauce is smooth and vibrant green.
  4. Add drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring constantly, until the sauce clings to the pasta, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Stir in ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and glossy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Optionally, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  6. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if available.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce. Keep heat low when adding cream and pesto to avoid curdling. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor or soak dry ones in warm water for 20 minutes. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free pesto. Additions like red pepper flakes, pine nuts, or greens can enhance the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pesto pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, basil pesto, comfort food, homemade pasta sauce

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/creamy-pesto-pasta-recipe-easy-homemade-with-sun-dried-tomatoes/