Spaghetti with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
This delightful spaghetti dish features the robust flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, combined with a creamy sauce that perfectly coats each strand of pasta. The sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes add a fresh burst of flavor, and sautéed onions provide a mellow, caramelized base for the sauce. The cream sauce is seasoned with salt and pepper for a perfect balance and is sure to satisfy all taste buds. Quick and easy to make, this recipe is ideal for both a busy weeknight dinner and a special weekend meal. It’s versatile enough to serve alone or as a side to your favorite grilled meats. The warm, comforting flavors of this dish make it a great choice for any season. Garnish with additional basil leaves for an aromatic touch that takes the presentation to the next level. If you enjoy pasta dishes with a touch of creaminess and a hint of tang, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 100 g sun-dried tomatoes
- 150 g cherry tomatoes
- 50 g onion
- 150 g heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves
Seasonings
- Salt
- Pepper
Preparation Time
- 20 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions
- **Boil the spaghetti** in a pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, **finely chop the onion** and sauté it in a skillet over medium heat until soft and translucent.
- While the onion cooks, **chop the sun-dried tomatoes**. Add them to the skillet with the onions and continue sautéing to blend the flavors.
- **Halve the cherry tomatoes** and add them to the skillet. Cook together, allowing the cherry tomatoes to soften slightly.
- Pour in the **heavy cream** and stir gently. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- **Chop the fresh basil finely** and add to the sauce, stirring to combine all the flavors thoroughly.
- Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens to your preferred consistency, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk.
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 85g
Variations
- Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber.
- Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a vegan option.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy with garlic bread for a delightful, garlicky crunch.
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine for a perfect complement.
Best Places
- Pasta Fresca - A charming trattoria offering authentic Italian pasta dishes. Location: Via Roma 23, Rome, Italy.
- Tomato & Basil - Known for its creative tomato-based sauces. Location: 14th Street, San Francisco, USA.
- Il Sugo - Famous for its homemade pasta in various sauces. Location: Rue de Rivoli 44, Paris, France.
- Café Paradiso - Offers an expansive vegetarian menu with diverse pasta options. Location: 23 Half Moon Lane, Cork, Ireland.
- Spaghetti Junction - A casual eatery with international pasta recipes. Location: Queen Street, Edinburgh, Scotland.
- Pesto Palate - Features flavorful pasta with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Location: King Road, Sydney, Australia.
- Trattoria Bella Roma - A family-run restaurant serving traditional Italian fare. Location: Leopoldplatz, Berlin, Germany.
- Le Ristorante - Exceptional pasta dishes with fresh local ingredients. Location: Plaza de España, Seville, Spain.
- A Tavola - Offers an innovative take on classic pasta recipes. Location: Lygon Street, Melbourne, Australia.
- La Dolce Vita - Renowned for its simple yet delicious pasta dishes. Location: Little Italy, Toronto, Canada.