Dried Tomato Pasta: 30-Minute Incredible Taste

Name: Dried Tomato Pasta: 30-Minute Incredible Taste
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces spaghetti; 3 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

by inass sped

August 10, 2025

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Dried Tomato Pasta Incredible has become my absolute go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. I remember the first time I tasted a truly amazing dried tomato pasta dish – the burst of sweet tomato, the fragrant garlic, and the hint of basil just sang together. It was a revelation! Now, I can easily whip up this incredible dried tomato pasta sensation in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. If you’ve ever wondered how to make incredible dried tomato pasta that’s both vibrant and deeply flavorful, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

An absolute flavor explosion that’s incredibly satisfying.
Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
Packed with fresh, healthy ingredients you can feel good about.
A budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Family-friendly and always a crowd-pleaser.
It’s an easy sun-dried tomato pasta that feels gourmet.
You’ll discover why this is the best dried tomato pasta dish.
Making an easy sun-dried tomato pasta has never been simpler.

Ingredients for Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious dried tomato pasta dish. The star of this recipe is the combination of fresh tomatoes and fragrant garlic, which create a beautiful sauce. For this sun-dried tomato pasta, you’ll need:

12 ounces spaghetti – a classic pasta shape that holds sauce well
3 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, diced – choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste
4 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory depth
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – a good quality olive oil makes a difference
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a touch of heat
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped – adds a burst of freshness
1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is best
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving – a perfect finishing touch

How to Make Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Start by cooking 12 ounces spaghetti in a large pot of generously salted boiling water. Follow the package directions, aiming for perfectly al dente pasta. Before draining, carefully reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water – this is gold for creating our sauce! Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and the optional 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for just 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as that can make it bitter.
Step 3: Toss in the 3 cups of diced fresh tomatoes into the skillet. Let them cook down for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and release their juices, creating a beautiful, light sauce. This step is key to building that amazing flavor for this savory dried tomato pasta dish.
Step 4: Season the tomato mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You’re aiming for a balanced flavor that complements the pasta perfectly.
Step 5: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together gently. Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, as you toss. The starchy water will emulsify with the olive oil and tomato juices to create a luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta. This transforms it into a truly quick dried tomato pasta meal.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil slightly and release its incredible aroma and fresh flavor.
Step 7: Serve this incredible pasta with dried tomatoes immediately. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra layer of savory goodness.

Dried Tomato Pasta: 30-Minute Incredible Taste - Dried Tomato Pasta Incredible - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

Want to elevate your dried tomato pasta game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will ensure your pasta is always a hit!

For the most vibrant flavor, don’t skimp on the quality of your extra virgin olive oil. It’s a key player in the sauce.
Always reserve more pasta water than you think you’ll need. It’s the secret to a perfectly emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta.
Fresh basil is best added at the very end, off the heat, to preserve its bright, fresh flavor and beautiful green color.
Don’t be afraid to add a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make this a heartier meal.

What’s the secret to perfect incredible dried tomato pasta?

The secret to truly incredible dried tomato pasta lies in building layers of flavor. Using ripe tomatoes, sautéing garlic until fragrant but not burnt, and using that starchy pasta water to create a luscious sauce are critical steps. It’s all about simple ingredients treated with care. For more simple yet flavorful recipes, check out our collection of recipes.

Can I make incredible dried tomato pasta ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you *can* prep components ahead. You can chop your vegetables and mince the garlic a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to assemble for the best texture. If you’re looking for other quick meal ideas, consider our Teriyaki Chicken Sheet Pan Supper.

How do I avoid common mistakes with incredible dried tomato pasta?

A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta – always aim for al dente! Another mistake is burning the garlic; sauté it gently. Finally, don’t forget to reserve that pasta water; it’s essential for creating a silky sauce, not just a watery tomato mixture. Learning about proper cooking techniques can help avoid these issues; you can find helpful tips on how to cook pasta.

Best Ways to Serve Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

This flavorful pasta dish is so versatile! For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread for soaking up any extra sauce. If you’re looking for the best pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe shines on its own, but adding a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp makes it a hearty dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or more Parmesan on top adds that final touch of freshness and flavor. For other delicious chicken dishes, you might like our Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake.

Nutrition Facts for Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

This vibrant pasta dish is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of this incredible dried tomato pasta:

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Fat: Approximately 15g
Saturated Fat: Approximately 3g
Protein: Approximately 15g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 70g
Fiber: Approximately 5g
Sugar: Approximately 5g
Sodium: Approximately 500mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your delicious dried tomato pasta.

Dried Tomato Pasta: 30-Minute Incredible Taste - Dried Tomato Pasta Incredible - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

This flavorful dried tomato pasta recipes creation is fantastic for leftovers, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Once you’ve enjoyed this delicious dried tomato pasta, let it cool completely before storing. For refrigeration, place the cooled pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep this amazing dried tomato pasta longer, it freezes beautifully! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the best way is on the stovetop. Gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry, stirring until heated through. You can also microwave it, covered, for a minute or two, stirring halfway. For other great meatball recipes, consider our Fried Meatballs Romanian Chiftele.

Frequently Asked Questions About Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta

Why is dried tomato pasta incredible?

This dried tomato pasta sensational dish is incredible because it balances simple, fresh ingredients with bold flavors. The sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the punch of garlic, and the freshness of basil create a symphony in your mouth. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients can create something truly satisfying and delicious. For more on flavor building, you might find information on building flavor useful.

What makes this a delicious dried tomato pasta?

It’s the combination of perfectly cooked al dente pasta coated in a light, vibrant sauce made from fresh tomatoes and good quality olive oil. The hint of optional red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth that just makes this tomato pasta with sun-dried tomatoes sing. Plus, finishing it with fresh basil and Parmesan makes it undeniably delicious. If you enjoy pasta dishes, you might also like our Chicken Meatballs Lemon Orzo.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh tomatoes, you can use about 1 cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped. Drain them well, but feel free to use a tablespoon or two of the oil from the jar in place of some of the olive oil for an extra flavor boost. This makes for an even quicker version of this amazing dried tomato pasta.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this incredible dried tomato pasta recipe is naturally vegetarian! It relies on fresh vegetables, pasta, garlic, and herbs for its amazing flavor. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly if you’re strictly adhering to a vegetarian diet, as some Parmesan is made with animal rennet. You can learn more about vegetarian diets on sites like the NHS Eatwell Guide.

Variations of Incredible Dried Tomato Pasta You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, there are so many ways to switch up this flavorful dried tomato pasta recipes! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

For a Creamy Twist: To create a decadent creamy dried tomato pasta recipe, stir in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the pasta water in Step 5. You can also add a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra richness.
Add Some Protein: Make this a heartier meal by adding grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or even crumbled Italian sausage to the skillet with the tomatoes in Step 3. This transforms it into a complete dinner. For a similar protein-rich dish, try our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole.
Vegetable Boost: Amp up the nutrition and flavor by tossing in some sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms along with the tomatoes. This adds wonderful texture and color to your pasta dish.
Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic sauté. You could also add a drizzle of chili oil at the end for an extra kick.