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Ziti With Garlic & Sundried Tomatoes

Ziti With Garlic & Sundried Tomatoes recipe image
This vibrant Ziti with Garlic & Sundried Tomatoes is a weeknight winner that delivers deep, savory flavors in under 40 minutes. The dish combines tender pasta with a rich, reduced tomato sauce infused with minced garlic and dried chiles for a subtle kick. Sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy, intense umami punch, while the finishing touch of fresh cilantro pesto brings a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness. Its hearty enough for a main course yet light enough to feel fresh.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4
Calories: 450
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Ziti with Garlic & Sundried Tomatoes is a weeknight winner that delivers deep, savory flavors in under 40 minutes. The dish combines tender pasta with a rich, reduced tomato sauce infused with minced garlic and dried chiles for a subtle kick. Sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy, intense umami punch, while the finishing touch of fresh cilantro pesto brings a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness. Its hearty enough for a main course yet light enough to feel fresh.
Ingredients
  • 3/4 pound Ziti
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce
  • 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoon Oil (for sauting)
  • 1 tablespoon Dried chiles (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon Red wine
  • 1/2 cup Fat-free Mozzarella or Monterey Jack style cheese (vegan option available)
  • 1/2 cup Diced sundried tomatoes
  • 2 cloves Garlic (for pesto)
  • 1 cup Fresh cilantro leaves, cleaned
Directions
  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
  2. 2
    While water heats, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3
    Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and red wine to the skillet.
  4. 4
    Saut garlic until soft and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. 5
    Stir in the dried chiles and saut briefly until aromatic.
  6. 6
    Add the tomato sauce and diced sundried tomatoes to the skillet.
  7. 7
    Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer gently.
  8. 8
    Add the ziti to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  9. 9
    Meanwhile, prepare the cilantro pesto: Process 2 garlic cloves in a food processor until minced.
  10. 10
    Add the cilantro leaves to the processor and puree into a fine paste.
  11. 11
    Once the pasta is done, drain it well.
  12. 12
    Return the drained pasta to the pot.
  13. 13
    Pour the simmered tomato sauce over the pasta.
  14. 14
    Add the cheese and toss everything together until well combined and the sauce has reduced to about 3/4 cup consistency.
  15. 15
    Serve immediately, topping each portion with about 1 tablespoon of the fresh cilantro pesto.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 450kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12g19%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Cholesterol 15mg5%
Sodium 650mg28%
Total Carbohydrate 65g22%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 8g
Protein 18g36%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Use oil-marinated sundried tomatoes for extra richness, or dry ones rehydrated in hot water. If using dry ones, ensure they are well-drained before adding to the sauce.

The cilantro pesto can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning.

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of dried chiles or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

This recipe is vegan-friendly if you use a plant-based cheese substitute or omit the cheese entirely.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to restore sauce consistency.

Keywords: ziti, sundried tomatoes, garlic, vegan pasta, italian dinner, cilantro pesto, quick meal, tomato sauce, dried chiles, weeknight dinner, plant-based, comfort food, easy recipe, herb sauce, pasta dish, flavorful, simmered sauce
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/ziti-with-garlic-sundried-tomatoes/