Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this sundried tomato mascarpone pasta recipe! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The creamy mascarpone combines perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the sundried tomatoes, creating a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Honestly, every time I make it, I can’t help but smile. It’s quick to whip up, which is fantastic for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Now, I’ve been cooking for quite a while, and I can promise you, this dish is super simple yet so elegant. I remember the first time I served it to my friends; they were blown away by how good it was! It’s become a staple in my household, and I love that it’s vegetarian, so I can share it with everyone. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to meals too. Let’s dive into the ingredients, so you can get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 200g pasta (I love using penne or fusilli for this dish, but any pasta you have on hand will work!)
- 100g mascarpone cheese (This creamy cheese is what makes the sauce so luscious and decadent.)
- 50g sundried tomatoes, chopped (You can use the oil-packed ones for extra flavor, or the dry ones—just make sure to soak them in hot water for a bit!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic really elevates the dish, adding an aromatic kick.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (I prefer extra virgin for that fruity flavor.)
- Salt, to taste (Don’t be shy; it brings out all the flavors!)
- Pepper, to taste (A little fresh cracked pepper adds a lovely bite.)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (This is optional, but it adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.)
How to Prepare the Sundried Tomato Mascarpone Pasta Recipe
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add a good couple of teaspoons of salt—it really makes a difference! Once it’s bubbling away, toss in your 200g of pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time; typically, it’s around 8-10 minutes for al dente. But here’s my little secret: about a minute before the time is up, taste a piece! You want it to be tender but with a slight bite. Drain it well and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! We want to keep that lovely starch that helps the sauce cling.
Sautéing the Garlic and Sundried Tomatoes
Now, grab a skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add in the 2 cloves of minced garlic. Oh, the aroma is going to be amazing! Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant—don’t let it brown, or it’ll get bitter. Next, throw in your 50g of chopped sundried tomatoes. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the tomatoes to soften a bit and soak up that garlicky goodness.
Mixing in the Mascarpone
Time to make that sauce dreamy! Reduce the heat to low and add in the 100g of mascarpone cheese. Stir it all together until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy. This part is so satisfying! If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can splash in a tablespoon or two of the pasta cooking water to loosen it up. Just keep mixing until everything is well combined, and the flavors meld together perfectly.
Tossing the Pasta
Here comes the fun part—combining everything! Add your drained pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Toss it all together gently, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious mascarpone sauce. This is where you can taste and adjust the seasoning. Sprinkle in some salt and fresh cracked pepper to your liking. It’s all about that balance!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, you’re almost there! Serve this dish hot and finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for that burst of color and flavor. It’s perfect as a stand-alone dish, but if you want to elevate your meal, pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the goodness in this delicious sundried tomato mascarpone pasta! Each serving packs a flavorful punch while still being relatively balanced. Here’s what you can typically expect in terms of nutrition:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But I think you’ll find this dish is not just tasty but also a fulfilling option for a delightful meal. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make—ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Creamy texture that’s both comforting and indulgent, thanks to the mascarpone.
- Packed with flavor from the sundried tomatoes and garlic, making every bite a delight.
- Vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it a breeze to whip up!
- Elegant enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a casual meal at home.
Tips for Success
Now, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your sundried tomato mascarpone pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Use fresh ingredients: Trust me, fresh garlic and high-quality mascarpone make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, go for the oil-packed sundried tomatoes—they add so much richness!
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep a close eye on your pasta while it cooks. Remember, it should be al dente, which means it still has a little bite to it. A great way to check is to taste it about a minute before the package time is up!
- Adjust the seasoning: Everyone’s taste is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper to suit your palate. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in, right?
- Storage advice: If you have leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or extra olive oil to bring it back to life.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add in some veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition, or toss in some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp if you’re feeling fancy!
These little tips will help you create a dish that’s not just good but truly fabulous. Enjoy your cooking adventure—you’ve got this!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mascarpone?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mascarpone on hand, cream cheese can be a good substitute, although it’ll give a slightly tangier flavor. You could also try ricotta for a lighter option. Just remember that the creaminess will change a bit!
What can I add to this sundried tomato mascarpone pasta for extra protein?
Great question! You can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost. Just cook them separately and toss them in with the pasta before serving. It’s a delicious way to make the dish heartier!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just cook the pasta when you’re ready to eat, and mix it all together. It saves time and still tastes delightful!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool down, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it creamy!
Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added nutrition and color. Just cook them alongside the garlic and sundried tomatoes for a deliciously vibrant dish!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s talk about some ingredient swaps and notes that can make your sundried tomato mascarpone pasta even more delightful or suited to your pantry needs!
- Pasta: While I love using penne or fusilli, feel free to swap in any pasta you have on hand, like spaghetti or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes can vary slightly!
- Mascarpone cheese: If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese is a decent alternative, though it will give a tangier taste and a slightly thicker texture. Ricotta can also work for a lighter option, but it won’t be as creamy.
- Sundried tomatoes: Oil-packed sundried tomatoes add a lovely richness, but if you’re using the dry kind, don’t forget to soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes to soften them up! You can also use sun-dried tomato pesto in a pinch; just adjust the amount to your taste.
- Olive oil: While I recommend extra virgin olive oil for its flavor, you can use any neutral oil you have, like canola or grapeseed oil, but it might lack that fruity note.
- Fresh basil: If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil instead, but the flavor will be less vibrant. Alternatively, parsley or arugula can add a fresh element as well!
These substitutions can keep your dish delicious while accommodating what you have at home. Don’t be afraid to experiment a bit—it’s all about finding what flavors you love best!
For more pasta recipes, check out this link for simple steps to delicious homemade joy!
Also, if you’re interested in the health benefits of tomatoes, you can read more about it here.
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Sundried Tomato Mascarpone Pasta Recipe in 25 Minutes!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish with sundried tomatoes and mascarpone.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 100g mascarpone cheese
- 50g sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in sundried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add mascarpone cheese and mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta.
- Adjust seasoning as per your taste.
- Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: sundried tomato mascarpone pasta recipe
