Pasta With Dried Tomato Vinaigrette

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This pasta dish is a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You’ll love how simple it is to make, with just a handful of ingredients that pack a punch. The tangy dried tomato vinaigrette adds a burst of flavor, while the fresh herbs bring a bright, invigorating finish. Plus, it’s versatile—you can toss in your favorite veggies or protein to make it your own. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious to eat!

Recipe

Pasta with dried tomato vinaigrette is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the simplicity of pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar or extra virgin)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, red wine vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the tomato mixture until well coated.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil.
6. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes:

• For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for extra protein and texture.

Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Serving: 4

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

This pasta dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing this pasta with a fresh salad, like a simple arugula or spinach mix, to add a crisp contrast to the rich flavors. A warm slice of garlic bread or a rustic Italian loaf also complements the dish perfectly, making it feel more complete. These sides not only balance the meal but make it feel like a special occasion, even on a busy weeknight.

Fresh Salad Pairings

Since the pasta’s already rich with bold flavors from the dried tomato vinaigrette, you’ll want a fresh salad that balances it out without stealing the show. I love simple salad combinations like crisp butter lettuce with cucumber and radishes—their crunch cuts through the pasta’s richness. A light lemon vinaigrette variation works wonders here, keeping things bright. Or try arugula with shaved Parmesan; its peppery bite pairs perfectly. Just avoid heavy dressings—they’ll clash. Remember, the salad’s job is to refresh your palate, not compete. Trust me, these pairings make every bite of that pasta even more satisfying.

Complementary Bread Choices

Alongside the pasta and salad, a great bread can really complete the meal. I love serving olive bread with its rich, savory flavor—it pairs perfectly with the tangy dried tomato vinaigrette. The olives add a nice salty bite that balances the dish. Another favorite of mine is focaccia options, like rosemary or garlic focaccia. They’re soft, herby, and great for soaking up any extra dressing. Sometimes, I’ll even drizzle a little olive oil on top for extra richness. Trust me, a warm slice of bread makes everything feel cozier and more satisfying. It’s the little things that make a meal special!