Simple Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Picture yourself on a sunny Italian terrace, surrounded by fragrant basil and ripe tomatoes. The aroma of garlic wafts through the air as you prepare to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort – Simple Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This classic Italian dish combines the freshness of basil pesto with the intense sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to Italy.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of penne pasta
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until well blended.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large skillet, heat the sun-dried tomatoes (along with a bit of their oil) over medium heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they become tender.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sun-dried tomatoes and toss to combine.
6. Stir in the prepared basil pesto, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve the Simple Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Simple Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful Italian pasta dish that combines the richness of basil pesto with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy pesto sauce coats every bite of al dente penne pasta, and the sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor to every forkful. This dish is a true celebration of Italian cuisine, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

– Calories: 450
– Fat: 32g
– Carbohydrates: 31g
– Protein: 11g

Imagine savoring each bite of this Simple Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, a dish that effortlessly captures the essence of Italy. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. So, gather your ingredients and transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with this delightful pasta creation.