Imagine twirling a forkful of silky pasta coated in a rich, creamy tahini sauce, infused with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and lemon. Sun-dried tomato tahini pasta is the ultimate fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, offering a plant-based dish that’s both indulgent and nourishing. This pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal preps, or impressing guests with a quick yet gourmet meal.
Why You’ll Love Sun-Dried Tomato Tahini Pasta
This recipe combines the creaminess of tahini with the tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a dish that’s rich in flavor but light on effort. It’s incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into gluten-free and vegan diets while satisfying every pasta lover. With its simple preparation and bold taste, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Tahini Pasta
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta of choice | 12 ounces | Gluten-free if needed. |
| Tahini | ⅔ cup | Recommendations: Soom Foods or 365 brand. |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1 cup | Packed in oil, not dried. |
| Oil from sun-dried tomatoes | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing the garlic and onion. |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Adjust for sauce consistency. |
| Garlic | 6 cloves, minced | Adds aromatic depth to the sauce. |
| Yellow onion | 1 large, finely chopped | Provides a sweet base. |
| Lemon juice | 1–2 tablespoons | About 1 lemon; adds brightness. |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste. |
| Nutritional yeast | 2 tablespoons | Adds a cheesy, umami flavor. |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon | Optional, for spice. |
| Black pepper | To taste | Enhances the dish’s complexity. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Onion
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Roughly chop the sun-dried tomatoes and add them to the skillet with the garlic and onion.
- Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Prepare the Tahini Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, vegetable broth, lemon juice, salt, nutritional yeast, and red pepper flakes.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out with additional vegetable broth or the reserved pasta water.
5. Combine the Sauce and Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic, onion, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Pour the tahini sauce over the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to create a smoother texture.
6. Season and Serve
- Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired.
What Makes This Dish Special?
1. Creamy Without Dairy
Thanks to tahini and nutritional yeast, this pasta achieves a luscious, creamy texture without using cream or cheese.
2. Bursting with Bold Flavors
The sun-dried tomatoes pack a punch, perfectly complementing the nuttiness of tahini and the brightness of lemon.
3. Quick and Easy
From start to finish, this dish takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Tasty Variations and Substitutions
1. Add Protein
- Toss in cooked chickpeas, grilled tofu, or roasted chicken for added protein.
2. Try Different Greens
- Stir in fresh spinach, arugula, or kale for a boost of nutrients and color.
3. Spice It Up
- Increase the red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil on top for extra heat.
4. Experiment with Pasta Shapes
- Fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti can add a unique texture to the dish.
5. Make It Nut-Free
- If you’re avoiding tahini (made from sesame), swap it for sunflower seed butter.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Carbohydrates | ~55g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Fiber | ~6g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.)
FAQs About Sun-Dried Tomato Tahini Pasta
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store the sauce and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine and reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve.
2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Any pasta works, but short shapes like penne or fusilli are great for holding the creamy sauce.
3. Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, but you’ll need to rehydrate them in warm water or broth before using.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the sauce.
5. Can I freeze the tahini sauce?
Absolutely! Freeze the sauce in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
6. Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be! Simply use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Sun-dried tomato tahini pasta is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, combining creamy textures with bold, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Try this recipe today and share your experience! Tag your creations on social media and inspire others to enjoy this delicious meal.