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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta Recipe

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4.3 from 54 reviews

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta is a luscious and flavorful dish combining the rich tang of sun-dried tomato pesto with creamy mascarpone and heavy cream. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe results in a smooth, velvety sauce coating your favorite pasta shape, garnished with fresh basil and parmesan for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • ½ lb dried pasta (any desired shape)

For the Sauce

  • 3 oz sun-dried tomato pesto
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz mascarpone cheese
  • ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water (to thin sauce)
  • Salt to taste

For Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the sun-dried tomato pesto and heavy cream. Stir gently to blend the flavors and heat through without boiling.
  3. Add mascarpone and seasonings: Lower the heat and whisk in the mascarpone cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add red pepper flakes and salt to taste, adjusting seasoning as desired.
  4. Thin the sauce: Slowly add the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously, until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency and can coat the pasta evenly.
  5. Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece in the creamy sun-dried tomato pesto.
  6. Serve garnished: Plate the pasta and garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can use any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti for this recipe.
  • If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
  • Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • This dish is best enjoyed immediately to enjoy the creamy texture at its peak.
  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/creamy-sun-dried-tomato-pesto-pasta-recipe/