Pasta Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A vibrant pasta dish featuring a tomato base enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, ready in under 30 minutes. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 40 minutes blends spaghetti, (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes 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 520 calories and feeds 4, 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
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Step 2: Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant without browning.
- Step 3: Stir in 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup fresh basil, simmering for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Step 4: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, tossing until the sauce evenly coats the pasta strands.
- Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately topped with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Pasta Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes take to make?
Total time is about 40 minutes (15 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Pasta Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
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 Pasta Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
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 Pasta Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Pasta Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
A wonderful recipe for a quick weeknight meal. The basil and sun-dried tomatoes were a great combination.
- ★★★★★
Loved it! The sauce simmered beautifully and the sun-dried tomatoes made it feel special.
- ★★★★★
My family devoured this! The tomato basil sauce was perfect, and the sun-dried tomatoes added a lovely twist.
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