Marry Me Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of spice, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta. This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s an experience that can evoke romantic feelings, making it the perfect meal for date nights or special occasions. With its comforting blend of ingredients and a pinch of love, this recipe is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share a plate.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will fall in love with Marry Me Pasta for its incredible flavor profile that balances savory, creamy, and slightly tangy notes. This dish is not only comforting but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. It fits well into various diets, especially when using whole grain or gluten-free pasta options, and it can easily be adapted to be lighter or more indulgent based on your preferences.
Tips and Tricks
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Pasta Choice: Opt for a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or fusilli.
- Make It Creamy: If you want a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese towards the end of cooking.
- Herb Flavor: Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so consider adding chopped basil or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Timing: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep several components of this dish in advance. Chop the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, and even cook the pasta a few hours ahead. Store the pasta separately in a little olive oil to prevent sticking. The sauce can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove before combining with freshly cooked pasta.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes for an extra kick or a dash of smoked paprika for added depth.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a plant-based alternative.
- Seasonal Switch: Swap out sun-dried tomatoes for seasonal vegetables like asparagus in the spring or roasted zucchini in the summer.
How to Serve
Serve Marry Me Pasta in a large, shallow bowl for a family-style presentation, or plate it individually for a fancier touch. Garnish with freshly chopped basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread to round out the meal beautifully.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a refreshing Prosecco complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Alternatively, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can be a great non-alcoholic option. For dessert, consider serving a light panna cotta or a fruit sorbet to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to a month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently on the stove with a splash of pasta water to restore creaminess.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large pot for boiling pasta, a sauté pan for making the sauce, and a colander to drain the pasta. A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring is also essential. If you prefer, you can use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
Dietary Adaptations
To make Marry Me Pasta vegan, replace the cream with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. For a nut-free option, ensure your ingredients are free from any traces of nuts, especially in sauces or pre-packaged items.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, consider using fresh asparagus or peas to add a seasonal touch. In the summer, cherry tomatoes can be used for a burst of freshness. For autumn, roasted butternut squash can be a delightful addition, adding sweetness and creaminess to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes? Yes, jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil work well; just drain and chop them before adding.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? Alternatives include half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
- What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? You can use Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative.
- How long does it take to cook the pasta? Usually, about 8-10 minutes, but refer to the package instructions for the best results.
How To Make Marry Me Pasta
Marry Me Pasta
Marry Me Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of spice, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and additional cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 490Total Fat 33gSaturated Fat 17gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 78mgSodium 332mgCarbohydrates 38gFiber 3gSugar 7gProtein 12g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a culinary love letter that brings warmth and joy to any table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is bound to win hearts and satisfy taste buds. So gather your ingredients, and let the cooking begin — love is just a plate away!
