Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta in garlic and basil sauce! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with flavor. The sweet and tangy notes of sun dried tomatoes combined with the earthy, meaty mushrooms create this heavenly blend that just dances on your taste buds. And don’t even get me started on the garlic and basil sauce; it’s aromatic and fresh, and honestly, it takes this dish to a whole new level!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy dinners at home after a long day. I can still picture my little kitchen filled with the comforting scent of garlic sizzling away. I’d whip this up in under 30 minutes, and it never failed to impress my family (and myself, let’s be real!). It’s simple, quick, and oh-so-satisfying—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients for Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta in Garlic and Basil Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing out that amazing flavor, so let’s get into it!

200g pasta: Any pasta works here, but I love using penne or spaghetti for that perfect bite.
100g sun dried tomatoes: These should be packed in oil for extra flavor; chop them up into smaller pieces for even distribution.
150g mushrooms, sliced: I prefer cremini or button mushrooms, but feel free to mix it up with your favorites!
3 cloves garlic, minced: The more garlic, the better! It adds that incredible aroma and flavor you can’t resist.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Use good quality olive oil; it really enhances the dish’s richness.
Fresh basil leaves: A handful, torn or chopped, will add a burst of freshness at the end.
Salt to taste: Just a pinch to elevate all those flavors.
Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked pepper brings a nice kick!

And there you have it! Simple, fresh, and oh-so-delicious ingredients that come together to create a pasta dish you’ll fall in love with. Gather these, and let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta in Garlic and Basil Sauce

Alright, let’s get this pasta party started! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is!

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add your 200g pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on it!
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute or so; you want it nice and hot!
Now it’s time to add that glorious 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it—burnt garlic can taste bitter, and we definitely don’t want that!
Next, toss in the 150g of sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re tender and have released their moisture. You’ll know they’re ready when they start to turn golden brown.
After that, it’s showtime for the 100g of sun dried tomatoes. Stir them in and let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes. The tomatoes will soak up all those lovely flavors!
Once your pasta is perfectly cooked, reserve about a cup of the pasta water (this is a little secret trick for making your sauce silky and smooth!). Then, drain the rest and add the pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic, mushrooms, and sun dried tomatoes.
Now, give it all a gentle toss to combine. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Finally, season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Toss in a handful of fresh basil leaves right at the end for that burst of freshness!

And voilà! You’re all set to serve up a bowl of this heavenly sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta. It’s quick, it’s easy, and oh boy, is it delicious! Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a homemade meal on the table that tastes like it came from a restaurant!
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it’s easy to whip this up any night of the week.
Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sun dried tomatoes, mushrooms, garlic, and basil creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta dish fits right in.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the veggies or pasta shape to match your personal taste!

Tips for Success

To make sure your sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta in garlic and basil sauce turns out absolutely amazing, here are some of my tried-and-true tips!

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality sun dried tomatoes packed in oil. They really amp up the flavor of the dish!
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta and aim for al dente. It’ll continue to cook a bit once you mix it with the sauce, and we don’t want mushy pasta!
Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two! Just make sure to sauté it carefully to avoid burning.
Reserve Pasta Water: Remember that little tip about saving some pasta water? It’s a game changer for achieving a silky sauce. Just a splash can make all the difference!
Fresh Basil is Key: Always add the fresh basil at the end. It gives your pasta a vibrant flavor and beautiful color!
Experiment with Cheese: If you’re not strictly vegetarian, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top takes this dish to another level!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a pasta dish that’s not just good, but absolutely fantastic. Happy cooking!

Variations of Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta

If you’re feeling adventurous (and I hope you are!), there are so many fun ways to mix things up with this sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta. Here are some of my favorite variations that can add a little twist to the classic recipe!

Different Pasta Shapes: Swap out your usual pasta for something different! Fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can give the dish a new vibe.
Herb Explosion: Experiment with other fresh herbs! A sprinkle of thyme or a handful of chopped parsley can add a delightful freshness. Or, for a Mediterranean twist, add a bit of oregano!
Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Just sauté them with the mushrooms for a few extra minutes until tender.
Cheesy Goodness: If you’re a cheese lover, consider mixing in some ricotta or goat cheese to the sauce for creaminess. Or sprinkle some feta on top for a tangy kick!
Protein Boost: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. They’ll make your pasta even more filling and satisfying!
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. It’ll give the dish a nice spicy finish!
Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest right before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing zing!

These variations can transform your sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta into a whole new dish every time you make it. So, get creative and have fun experimenting with flavors that you love! You might just discover your new favorite version!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta in garlic and basil sauce, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for the ultimate meal experience! Trust me, pairing dishes can elevate your dinner from good to absolutely fantastic!

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect companion. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with some warm, buttery garlic bread on the side! It’s great for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve up a medley of roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender. Yum!
Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For those who want to add a protein boost, some grilled chicken or shrimp can make this meal feel even more substantial and satisfying.
Cheesy Caprese Skewers: These are super fun! Skewer fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves for a bite-sized appetizer that complements the pasta beautifully.
Wine Pairing: Don’t forget about drinks! A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti pairs wonderfully with the flavors of this dish.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a well-rounded meal that delights the senses and satisfies everyone at the table. Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones—they’ll be asking for your secret recipe in no time!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, if you find yourself with some delicious leftovers of this sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta in garlic and basil sauce (which is totally likely, because it’s just that good!), let me share my best tips for storing and reheating it so it tastes just as amazing the next day!

First things first, let the pasta cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make your pasta soggy. Once it’s cooled, grab an airtight container and transfer your leftovers into it. Make sure to seal it tightly to keep all those yummy flavors locked in!

You can store your pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to label it with the date so you don’t lose track of it! If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, and it should last for about 2 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Now, when it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. If you’re using the microwave, place your pasta in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. This helps keep the moisture in! Heat it in short intervals of about 1 minute, stirring in between until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or olive oil to help bring back that creamy texture.

If you prefer using the stovetop, simply transfer the pasta to a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or a splash of water to the pan, and stir gently until it’s heated all the way through. This method helps retain the flavors and gives you that freshly cooked taste!

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta in garlic and basil sauce even after it’s made. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! Knowing the nutritional breakdown of your meal can be super helpful, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your diet. Here are the typical values per serving for this scrumptious sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta in garlic and basil sauce:

Calories: 450
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, this dish is packed with wholesome goodness that’s satisfying and delicious. So, dig in and enjoy every bite without any guilt!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, just make sure to remove the seeds and dice them up. You might need to cook them a little longer to get that concentrated flavor, but it’ll still be delicious!

What can I substitute for mushrooms?
If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can easily swap them out for other veggies like zucchini, spinach, or even bell peppers. Just sauté them until tender, and they’ll add their own lovely flavors to the dish!

Can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set. The cooking method remains the same, and it will still taste fantastic!

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. Or, add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick. You’ll love the added depth of flavor!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely! You can cook the pasta and sauce separately ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, combine them and heat everything up. Perfect for meal prep!

Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 7 Flavorful Secrets

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious pasta dish with sun dried tomatoes and mushrooms in a garlic and basil sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

200g pasta
100g sun dried tomatoes
150g mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil leaves
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions.
In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
Stir in sun dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss to combine.
Season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Adjust garlic according to your preference.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: sun dried tomato and mushroom pasta, garlic and basil sauce, vegetarian pasta

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