Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes

Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the vibrant taste of basil pesto with the sweet tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is quick to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a taste of Italy at home. Here’s how to make Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes with a recipe that promises to please your taste buds.

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Ingredients:

For the Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
• Additional grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Make the Pesto:

1. In a food processor or blender, combine fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts or walnuts, and peeled garlic cloves.
2. Pulse several times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
4. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

3. Assemble Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the drained sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat for 1-2 minutes to warm them through.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water.
3. Stir in the prepared pesto, tossing the pasta gently to coat evenly with the pesto sauce and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Cook for another minute or until the pasta is heated through.

4. Serve:

1. Divide Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes among serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and thinly sliced fresh basil leaves.
3. Serve immediately, while the pasta is hot and the flavors are vibrant.

5. Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pair with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the herbaceous flavors of the pesto.

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Conclusion: Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the fresh flavors of basil pesto and the sweet, intense taste of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe allows you to enjoy a taste of Italy in the comfort of your home, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes with this simple yet satisfying recipe.