5 Minute Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta

This Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta is just what you need on a busy weeknight.

Penne pasta is always a favorite with a special sauce that can make dinnertime even better. For more penne pasta recipes try this Chicken Parmesan Casserole, Instant Pot Pasta with Meatballs or Pesto Alfredo Chicken Casserole.

Quick and Easy Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta

Ready Pasta is perfect for a quick lunch, dinner or snack! Ready in just 60 seconds, it’s great for a meal on the go, whether it be lunch at work, an after-school snack or an easy, delicious dinner at home. Combine my favorite ingredients together and create a sweet and savory sun dried tomato pesto that will enhance this pasta and WOW your family! This combination mixed together will have rave reviews in your home.

Pesto Pasta Ingredients

Making this pesto pasta is amazingly easy to do. With pantry staple ingredients as well as keeping it under 6 ingredients, this pasta combination is a MUST try!

• Sun Dried Tomatoes in Oil: Jarred and easy to access at Target
• Basil: Fresh basil is best and gives that delicious aroma and taste in the pesto sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated is perfect
• Pine Nuts: These nuts are soft, crunchy and chewy all in one bite.
• Oil: Helps add flavoring as well as smooths the sauce.
• Garlic: Add in some fresh grated garlic for a hint of savory deliciousness.
• Salt and Pepper: Just to taste, if needed!
• Package of Barilla Read Penne Ready Pasta: This pasta is the main event and makes life so much easier cooking this pasta in 60 seconds.

Only 5 Minutes!

Place the pasta in the microwave to warm up, combine your pesto sauce then mix together and you have a delicious dinner ready in no time! This 5 minute dinner is going to be a family favorite.

1. In a food processor combine sun dried tomatoes, basil, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Pulse until smooth.
2. In a medium skillet add the pesto over medium heat to warm. Cook the pasta in the microwave according to package directions. Carefully open the package and add to the pesto and toss until coated. Serve.

Microwave Pasta!

Each variety of Ready Pasta will have specific heating instructions that are simple to read and right on the back of the package. There are two options to choose from, either microwave for 60 seconds or warmed up in a skillet for 2 to 4 minutes. Once you are ready to heat the pasta, simply knead the pouch prior to opening. For best results follow the package instructions that are listed on the back.

Tips for the Best Sun Dried Pesto Pasta

It is best to follow the instructions located on the back of the package when cooking the pasta. Once the pasta is done it can be combined easily with the sun dried tomato pesto pasta.

• Knead the Package: It is recommend but not required to knead and move the pasta package around. The pasta will still heat properly either way.
• Tear: It is not a problem if you forget to tear the package before cooking in the microwave. If you do forget, the steam may increase in the pouch and cause it to possibly pop. Wait about 2 minutes before opening if you forget to tear the pouch to avoid any built-up steam.
• After Microwaving: The pasta will be hot! Empty the product in a bowl and gently separate with a fork if needed.
• Protein: Add in some leftover chicken strips or meatballs to add in protein for a more complete meal.
• Pesto Pasta: If you do not have a food processor, a blender or a mixer will also help to mix together the ingredients quickly and easily.

When Can I Use Ready Pasta?

Any time! Seriously, this will be a convenient substitute for Barilla Dry Pasta. Replace any pasta for this Ready Pasta and still have high-end pasta dinner. Combine any sauces or simply add butter for a delicious meal using this Ready Pasta. It is simple to make and comes in a variety of pasta choices. Change your dinner routine and simplify using this Ready Pasta in half the time.

Storing Sun Dried Pasta

This pasta is perfect for storing and reheating the next day for a quick snack or a light lunch. Once the pouch is used, discard the pouch and place in a sealed container or airtight bag that will hold the pasta.

• Refrigerator: You will want to store in an airtight container for 2 days. Place in the microwave safe bowl and reheat for 30-60 seconds.
• Can you Freeze the Ready Pasta Pouch? Once it is cooked, you can freeze in an airtight container for 1 month. When ready to reheat, place bag in a pot of boiling water to reheat.

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