Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Capers and Dill

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy pasta dish offers a beautiful harmony of flavors, with the sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes complementing the briny capers, and the creamy sauce bringing everything together. The fresh dill adds an unexpected herbal note that elevates the dish even further. The combination of textures, from the al dente pasta to the velvety sauce, makes every bite satisfying. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated meal that works perfectly for any occasion, from a casual dinner to a special gathering.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed or rehydrated if dried)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)

• 2 tablespoons capers, drained

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set aside.

2. Prepare the sun-dried tomato sauce:

• While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to release their flavors.

• Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Make the creamy sauce:

• Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

• Add the reserved pasta water and stir until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. You can add more pasta water if needed.

4. Combine pasta and sauce:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce until well-coated. Stir in the capers, fresh dill, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

• Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with extra chopped dill, a drizzle of olive oil, and lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing burst of citrus.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

1. Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp can be added to this dish for extra protein.

2. Make it dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan to make this dish dairy-free.

3. Extra veggies: Sauté spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers and add them to the sauce for a veggie-packed version of this dish.

4. Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat, or toss in a chopped chili pepper with the garlic for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?

Yes, you can use dried sun-dried tomatoes, but you will need to rehydrate them first by soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes.

2. Can I use a different kind of pasta for this dish?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni, farfalle, or spaghetti.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While pasta is best fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta and toss it in the reheated sauce.

4. What can I substitute for capers?

If you don’t have capers, you can substitute them with green olives for a similar briny flavor.

5. Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. If you want to make it vegan, simply swap out the cream for a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the cream for a few extra minutes to reduce it, or add a little more pasta water to adjust the consistency.

7. Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?

Yes, fresh dill is ideal in this recipe, but if you only have dried dill, use about 1 tablespoon instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta with the sauce for up to 1 month. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of cream or water to restore the creamy texture.

9. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

10. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, be sure to cook the sauce over medium heat and avoid boiling it. Also, add the pasta water gradually to reach the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Capers and Dill is a rich and satisfying dish that brings bold flavors to your dinner table in no time. The combination of creamy sauce, tangy capers, and aromatic sun-dried tomatoes creates a perfectly balanced meal that is both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it at a special dinner, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Easy to make, yet elegant enough to impress your guests!

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