If you’re craving a pasta dish that bursts with bold flavors and fresh textures, the Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Arugula and Parmesan Recipe is your new go-to. This vibrant creation perfectly balances the tangy richness of sun dried tomatoes with peppery arugula and nutty Parmesan, all tossed with tender penne pasta. Every bite delivers a delightful mix of savory, spicy, and fresh notes that makes it feel both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this recipe never fails to amaze and satisfy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of several white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. One large white bowl at the top right contains dry, uncooked penne pasta in a light beige color. Another large white bowl at the bottom right holds fresh, green arugula leaves with jagged edges. To the left of the arugula, a smaller white bowl is filled with freshly grated white cheese. Above this, a clear glass bowl contains golden olive oil. To the left of the olive oil, a small white bowl holds fresh chopped green herbs. Below that, another small white bowl contains a mix of black pepper, red chili flakes, and salt. Three whole garlic cloves are placed beside the small bowls. On the left side of the image, there is a large bowl filled with dark red sun-dried tomatoes. The overall color contrast of pale pasta, bright greens, dark sun-dried tomatoes, and pale cheese is clear and vibrant. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each component plays a vital role—from the peppery pop of arugula to the velvety touch of Parmesan—creating a harmonious symphony of taste, texture, and color on your plate.

10 ounces penne pasta: This sturdy shape holds the sauce wonderfully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently cook the garlic and spices.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and savory depth.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides just the right amount of heat to lift the flavors.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and balances the overall taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, earthy spice.
1 8-ounce jar sun dried tomatoes, oil drained and roughly chopped: The star ingredient delivering concentrated sweetness and tang.
1/3 cup grated Parmesan (plus more for serving): Offers a nutty, salty creaminess that ties everything together.
1-1/2 cups baby arugula: Brings a fresh, peppery crunch and vibrant green color.
1 tablespoon chopped parsley: A bright finishing touch that adds a hint of herbal freshness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Arugula and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning tender but with a little bite. Don’t forget to save half a cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain it; this starchy water is going to be key in creating a silky sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spices

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sauté just until fragrant, which should take around 30 seconds. This quick step releases those beautiful aromas that begin to build the flavor base.

Step 3: Add the Sun Dried Tomatoes

Next, toss in the roughly chopped sun dried tomatoes and sauté for two minutes. This allows their intense, slightly tangy sweetness to meld with the garlic and spices, creating a rich, flavorful mix that will coat the pasta beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Tomato Mixture

Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with your tomato mixture. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Create a Velvety Sauce

Pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet, letting it bubble gently for a couple of minutes. Keep stirring as the starchy water helps to bind the ingredients together, making a luscious sauce that perfectly clings to the penne.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Greens

Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, lending a smooth, creamy texture. Then add the baby arugula, stirring just enough to wilt it slightly so its peppery freshness stays vibrant in every bite.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped parsley across the top for a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness, then add extra Parmesan if you like. Your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Arugula and Parmesan Recipe is now ready to delight your taste buds.

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Arugula and Parmesan Recipe

The image shows a pan filled with cooked penne pasta mixed with small pieces of browned meat and some green herbs or vegetables, all topped generously with fresh arugula leaves. The penne is light yellow with a slight shine from the sauce. The arugula is bright green and spread evenly on top, adding a fresh and leafy texture. The pan has a black edge, contrasting with the white marbled surface beneath it. A woman's hand is holding the pan's handle at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The simplest garnishes can elevate your dish to restaurant quality. A handful of extra Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings or a drizzle of a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil added just before serving amps up the flavor and gives it that delectable finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce. Light roasted vegetables also complement the robust flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Arugula and Parmesan Recipe in shallow white bowls to showcase the vibrant colors. Adding a few whole sun dried tomatoes or arugula leaves on top creates a beautiful, rustic look that invites guests to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, but remember to add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water before reheating to keep it from drying out.

Freezing

While pasta with fresh greens doesn’t always freeze perfectly due to texture changes, you can freeze the cooked pasta and sun dried tomato mix before adding the arugula. Freeze in a sealed container for up to two months, then thaw and add fresh arugula when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore silkiness. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the dish and wilt the arugula too much.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni will also work beautifully.

Is it necessary to drain the oil from sun dried tomatoes?

Draining the oil helps control the richness and prevents the pasta from becoming too oily, but a bit of the flavored oil can add delicious depth if you prefer.

Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese?

Pecorino Romano offers a sharper alternative, and Grana Padano works well too. However, fresh Parmesan gives that perfect balance of creaminess and saltiness.

How spicy is this pasta dish?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that awakens the flavors but stays mild enough to please most palates. You can adjust the amount to your spice preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! It’s an excellent option for meal prep, and reheats well when you add the arugula fresh right before serving.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to dive into this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Arugula and Parmesan Recipe because it’s one of those rare dishes that combines ease, elegance, and unforgettable flavor in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, this pasta will brighten any mealtime with its vibrant taste and simple, fresh ingredients. Give it a try—you’ll want to make it again and again!