Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight Recipe
If you are craving a meal that feels both comforting and vibrant, the Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight is exactly what you need. This dish is a harmonious blend of earthy mushrooms and the intense, tangy flavor of sun dried tomatoes, all wrapped up with fresh basil and garlic. It’s not only quick to prepare but also delivers rich taste and satisfying textures that can brighten any weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned pasta lover or trying to whip up something delicious with minimal fuss, this recipe is a delightful way to bring bold flavors to your table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each one plays a vital role in giving the Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight its unique and irresistible profile.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite type; it forms the satisfying base that carries all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped: Packed with concentrated, tangy sweetness that boosts the dish’s flavor.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy depth and meaty texture that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with sharp, aromatic fragrance and warmth.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Brightens everything up with a fresh, herbaceous note.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Provides a luscious mouthfeel and brings all the ingredients together seamlessly.
- Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Pepper to taste: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and balance.
How to Make Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. This typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the type. Cook it until al dente for that perfect chewiness that holds up well with the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful toppings.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat your olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it just until it’s fragrant and golden, usually about 1 minute. This short cooking time ensures the garlic doesn’t become bitter but releases its warm, inviting aroma that sets the tone for the entire dish.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the garlic oil. Let them cook until they become soft and slightly browned, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Mushrooms have a lot of moisture, so this step is key to developing that rich, savory flavor and firm texture.
Step 4: Add the Sun Dried Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes. This allows their oil and flavor to meld with the mushrooms and garlic, creating a luscious base for the pasta. The sun dried tomatoes bring a lovely balance of tanginess and sweetness that makes every bite exciting.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Herbs
Add the cooked pasta directly into the pan with the mushroom and tomato mixture. Toss everything together so the pasta evenly absorbs all those wonderful flavors. Finish by stirring in the fresh basil, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. This last touch adds that fresh green pop and elevates the dish into a perfect harmony of rustic and refined.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve the Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight immediately while it’s warm and inviting. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas make this dish not just a treat for your palate but also a feast for the eyes.
How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight
Garnishes
To add an extra bit of flourish, consider topping your pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of toasted pine nuts. These little touches bring in extra texture and richness, making each forkful even more delightful. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also boost flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm focaccia are also wonderful choices that complement the earthy mushrooms and sweet tang of the sun dried tomatoes, rounding out a comforting and complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight in small individual bowls topped with a basil leaf for a pop of color. Alternatively, layering it in a shallow casserole dish and garnishing with freshly cracked pepper and herb sprigs makes it perfect for casual family dinners or entertaining friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors might even deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as enjoyable. Be sure to cool the pasta before sealing it to keep it fresh and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
While freezing is an option, the texture of the pasta and mushrooms might change a bit once thawed. If you decide to freeze it, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pasta slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of olive oil or water to revive moisture. Microwaving works too but stir midway through to ensure even warming without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun dried tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes will change the flavor profile quite a bit, as they are much milder and juicier. Sun dried tomatoes provide intense sweetness and tang that fresh ones lack, so the dish won’t have quite the same punch if you substitute.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Any pasta that can hold sauce well works wonderfully here. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti are great options. The key is a pasta shape that allows the mushroom and tomato mixture to cling to it nicely.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
The recipe itself is vegan if you skip any cheese garnishes. Everything else is plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike who want a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas mix nicely into this dish and add a welcoming boost of protein without overpowering the vibrant flavors of the sun dried tomatoes and mushrooms.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Adding chili flakes during the sauté step or sprinkling some on top when serving will give the dish a pleasant kick. You can adjust the amount to your personal heat preference to make the Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight your own spicy masterpiece.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish that comes together quickly yet leaves you feeling like you just had a restaurant-quality meal. The Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight is exactly that kind of recipe. When you need a burst of flavor and comfort in under half an hour, this pasta will be your new favorite go-to. So grab your ingredients, invite some friends or family, and enjoy a simple yet wonderfully delicious dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta recipe that can be prepared in just 25 minutes. This vegetarian dish features tender pasta tossed with savory sun dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and fresh basil, all brought together with a touch of olive oil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with rich, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Others:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned, releasing its aromatic flavors.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and slightly browned.
- Add Sun Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors together.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the vegetables and toss well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Season and Add Basil: Mix in the fresh chopped basil, season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything once more to incorporate the seasoning.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm as a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use sun dried tomatoes packed in oil for a richer flavor.
- For gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if not vegan.
- Can be served as a main dish or a side.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: sun dried tomato pasta, mushroom pasta, quick vegetarian pasta, easy pasta recipe, 25-minute pasta, Italian pasta dish
