Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

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Searching for a yummy vegetarian pasta dish? Try this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad. It combines rich sun-dried tomato sauce with creamy mozzarella. It also adds savory parmesan cheese and the kick of white wine and basil. It’s great for any event.

This dish is perfect for busy nights, ready in just 20 minutes. You can use store-bought stuff or try homemade pasta. Everyone will love this creamy, tangy delightful dish. It’s a great one to have over and over in your meals.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Starting a tasty Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad means choosing the right stuff. You can pick penne, bowtie, or rotini pasta. There’s also gluten-free pasta for those who need it.

Using a butter substitute like margarine or olive oil keeps it rich but healthier. Add garlic for a kick. You can make the sauce thicker by mixing in some flour.

White wine makes the flavor stronger. But, chicken broth is a good non-alcoholic choice. For creaminess, you have options like heavy cream or use heavy cream alternatives like half and half, cream cheese, or sour cream.

Sun-dried tomatoes give a special taste. You can buy them in jars or make your own. Use mozzarella and parmesan for a tasty layer. Also, check out dairy-free cheese options if you can’t have dairy.

Add herbs like oregano, basil, and red pepper for a great finish. Making your own Italian seasoning can add a special touch.

Now you have the ingredients and some substitute choices. This lets you make a special pasta salad. It fits different diets and tastes.

Instructions

Start by boiling your pasta until it’s just right, or al dente. Save some water from boiling the pasta. You’ll use it later for the sauce.

Then, in a skillet, melt butter. Toss in minced garlic to make it smell amazing. Cook garlic until it’s just brown, around a minute.

Add a bit of flour and stir well. It makes the sauce thicker. Pour in white wine or broth and keep stirring. Add cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese. Mix until the cheese is all melted. Basil will make it even tastier.

Season with salt and pepper as you like. Mix the pasta with your sauce. Use the saved pasta water to make it just the right thickness. Your pasta will have a creamy and rich taste.

You can change the recipe to fit what you like. Add chicken, shrimp, or sausage for more flavor. Spinach or other veggies can make it healthier and add crunch. It’s up to you.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

To make the best Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, follow these tips. For the best taste and to keep it fresh, store leftovers in a sealed container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. To warm it up, add some water or stock and heat it on the stove.

This salad is great for lunch or a side dish. You can eat it alone or with a green salad or bread. Try including other tasty sides like a kale Caesar salad or balsamic brussels sprouts. For special meals, pair your dish with a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris.

This pasta salad is perfect for preparing ahead of time. It tastes good both warm and cold. It stays fresh in the fridge for about a week. Feel free to make it your own by adding more veggies or using a lighter dressing.