Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Pasta in Fresh Tomato Sauce
Introduction
Embark on a delightful culinary adventure with this Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Pasta in Fresh Tomato Sauce, a dish that harmoniously blends the vibrant flavors of Italy into a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, transforming everyday ingredients into a gourmet experience that your family and friends will cherish. With its fresh tomato sauce enriched by the sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives, each bite is a burst of flavor that transports you straight to the heart of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Spaghetti Pasta | 350 grams |
Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (halved) | 8 pieces |
Kalamata Olives (halved) | 8 pieces |
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for cooking) | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | To taste |
Pepper | To taste |
Dried Oregano | To taste |
Red Chili Flakes | To taste |
Fresh Tomatoes | 6 pieces |
Onion (finely chopped) | 1 piece |
Garlic (finely chopped) | 6 cloves |
Paprika Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Dried Mixed Herbs | 2 teaspoons |
Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Value |
---|---|
Calories | 400 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 70 g |
Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
Sugars | 5 g |
Total Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
Sodium | 250 mg |
Preparation Steps
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Cooking the Pasta
Begin your culinary journey by bringing a large pot of water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, generously season the water with a teaspoon of salt. Carefully add the spaghetti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 12-15 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold running water to halt the cooking process. To prevent the pasta from sticking together, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over it, ensuring each strand is lightly coated. -
Preparing the Fresh Tomato Sauce
For the sauce, start by preparing the fresh tomatoes. Place them in a separate pot of boiling water; as they cook, their skins will begin to peel. Once the skins have loosened, remove them from the boiling water, allowing them to cool slightly before peeling them off. Dice the tomatoes finely and then blend them in a mixer until you achieve a smooth purée.In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Introduce the chopped onion to the pan, cooking until it softens and turns translucent. Pour in the pureed tomatoes, add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Finally, stir in the paprika powder and dried mixed herbs, cooking for an additional 5 minutes before removing the sauce from the heat.
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Combining the Ingredients
Now it’s time to unite the flavors. In a large frying pan, heat another teaspoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden. Carefully add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, along with the vibrant fresh tomato sauce. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives, mixing everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the sauce. -
Seasoning to Taste
Season the pasta liberally with salt, pepper, red chili flakes, and dried oregano. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. Allow the dish to come to a gentle simmer, ensuring that the sauce envelops every strand of spaghetti beautifully. -
Serving Suggestions
Once the pasta is warmed through and well combined, remove it from the heat. For an extra special touch, serve your Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Pasta in Fresh Tomato Sauce with a side of toasted garlic bread, complemented by a refreshing light and creamy broccoli soup. This meal not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
Conclusion
This Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Pasta in Fresh Tomato Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors. It encapsulates the essence of Italian cooking, where simplicity meets deliciousness, making it a dish that will be loved by everyone at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will undoubtedly become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every delightful bite!