Linguine with Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce
A vibrant pasta dish where sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil create a bright, simple sauce that clings perfectly to tender linguine. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian, gluten-free) ready in about 30 minutes blends linguine, sun-dried tomatoes in oil, fresh basil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz linguine and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant — do not brown.
- Step 3: Stir in 1/2 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, cooking for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Step 4: Add drained linguine to the skillet along with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, tossing vigorously for 1 minute until sauce clings to pasta.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Linguine with Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Linguine with Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Linguine with Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Linguine with Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Linguine with Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
So easy and so delicious! The basil added a lovely freshness.
- ★★★★★
This recipe is a new favorite. I'll make it again and again.
- ★★★★★
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The sauce clung beautifully to the linguine.
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