Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Creamy

If you crave pasta that feels both comforting and absolutely new, this sun dried tomato creation is about to be your weeknight obsession. Creamy coconut, tangy tomatoes, subtly sweet balsamic, and herby goodness all come together in a dish so luscious you may forget about your old mac and cheese routine. It is easy, rich, undeniably vibrant, and the best part is you can get it on the table with just a handful of pantry ingredients.

I first cooked this on a rainy Sunday when the fridge was nearly empty and I wanted something that felt luxurious. Now it is a staple for any craving that demands both comfort and bold flavor.

Ingredients

• Gluten free fettuccine: this is the backbone of the dish make sure to select a brand that holds its shape and does not get mushy check ingredients for best quality
• Garlic: fresh is best for strong aroma and flavor look for firm cloves without any green shoots
• Sun dried tomatoes: these create deep umami and sweetness choose oil packed for richer flavor or dry packed if you want less oil
• Italian seasoning: creates a unified herbal base opt for brands with no fillers or salt for best taste
• Balsamic vinegar: brightens everything and balances acidity choose aged for smoothness
• Tomato paste: brings deep tomato concentration use double concentrated for intensity
• Cherry tomatoes: burst with juiciness and sweetness buy firm bright colored tomatoes for best texture
• Water or vegetable broth: helps the sauce simmer use broth if you want added flavor depth
• Full fat canned coconut milk: use only thick cream from the top for maximum creaminess always shake can before opening
• Nutritional yeast: adds a cheesy flavor and B vitamins look for yellow flakes without clumps
• Salt and pepper: enhances flavors use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible
• Baby arugula: brings peppery freshness pick vibrant and unwilted leaves
• Flat leaf parsley: for herbal brightness chop just before serving to keep it fresh
• Vegan parmesan: is optional for finishing but adds even more richness if you want that traditional pasta vibe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook Pasta:

Boil a large pot of water and salt generously then cook the gluten free fettuccine following package instructions until just al dente do not overcook Rinse briefly with warm water to stop cooking and set aside

Sauté Aromatics:

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water broth or a small amount of oil Add the minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes Sauté gently for two minutes stirring so garlic does not brown and sun dried tomatoes begin to soften and release aroma Add a tablespoon or two of water if needed to prevent sticking

Caramelize Flavors:

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning pour in balsamic vinegar and spoon in tomato paste Stir and cook for two or three minutes until the tomato paste turns a darker shade and the flavors become fragrant and caramelized This step lays down the deep rich backbone of the sauce

Simmer Sauce:

Toss in the cherry tomatoes and pour in the water or broth Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for three or four minutes until tomatoes soften completely Use your spoon to gently smash the tomatoes into the sauce releasing all their juices

Stir in Coconut Milk and Nutritional Yeast:

Open your can of coconut milk and spoon only the thick cream into the skillet followed by the nutritional yeast Season with salt and pepper to your taste Let the mixture simmer on low for five to ten minutes stirring so it thickens into a velvety sauce

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Drain your cooked fettuccine and add directly into the skillet with the sauce Toss to completely coat every noodle Add the baby arugula and keep tossing with gentle heat until the arugula wilts just slightly and turns vibrant green

Serve:

To finish sprinkle chopped flat leaf parsley over the pasta and add vegan parmesan if using Scoop into bowls and serve piping hot with extra herbs if desired

Pin it

Sun dried tomatoes are my superstar ingredient They bring a pop of flavor so intense that a small amount transforms the entire dish My kids laugh because no matter how many times I try new recipes this is the one that makes it to birthdays sleepovers and rainy afternoons Guests always ask what the secret is

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days The sauce may thicken as it chills simply add a splash of water or plant milk and reheat on the stove until creamy Stir gently to avoid breaking the noodles

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the fettuccine for any short gluten free pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni if preferred For an even creamier sauce you can use cashew cream or oat cream in place of coconut milk For herbs try a mix of dried basil and oregano if you do not have Italian seasoning

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta hot right from the skillet for a rustic feel For extra protein toss in white beans or cooked lentils before serving A crisp green salad and a hunk of toasted gluten free bread make this a complete cozy meal

Cultural Context

While traditional Italian pasta might rely on butter and cheese this version takes inspiration from vegan cooking trends and Mediterranean flavors Sun dried tomatoes are an ingredient loved across Italy and the creamy sauce texture is reminiscent of Roman classic dishes

Pin it

This pasta will brighten up any dinner table and satisfies both comfort cravings and fresh food vibes Prepare to get requests for seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any favorite pasta shape, such as spaghetti or penne, works well for holding the creamy sauce.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

Cashew cream or a thick oat-based cream can be used in place of coconut milk for similar creaminess.

→ How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce liquid. Adding extra tomato paste also increases thickness and intensity.

→ Can vegan parmesan be omitted?

Absolutely. The dish is tasty on its own, but vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast boost savory notes if desired.

→ What pairs well as a side?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement the creamy, robust flavors wonderfully.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Gently warm leftovers on the stove with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.