Name: Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 tbsp high quality extra virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced small; 1 tbsp fresh garlic, minced (about 4-5 cloves); 1 tsp dried oregano; ¼ tsp sea salt, plus more to taste; ½ tsp red pepper flakes, to taste; 1 15-oz can full fat coconut milk; 1 cup tomato pasta sauce of choice or crushed tomatoes; ⅓ cup oil packed sun dried tomatoes; ½ tsp cane sugar, optional- to taste; ½ cup fresh chopped basil; ½ lb dried pasta of choice like rigatoni; Fresh basil, for garnish

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If you’re craving a vibrant, indulgent pasta experience that’s both dairy-free and vegan-friendly, then the Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. This luscious sauce combines the tropical creaminess of coconut milk with the rich, tangy bite of sun-dried tomatoes and the fragrant brightness of fresh basil, creating a harmony of flavors that will elevate any pasta dish in under 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be a delightful surprise that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small bowls and measuring cups arranged neatly on a white marbled tiled surface. At the top left, there are pieces of uncooked rigatoni pasta in pale yellow scattered around a small metal measuring cup filled with light brown granules. To its right, a bowl holds deep red sun-dried tomatoes with a few bright green basil leaves nearby. Below the pasta, a glass bowl contains golden yellow olive oil, casting a soft shadow. Next to it is a dark brown bowl filled with thick, rich red tomato sauce. Below these, a measuring cup contains white chopped onions with a slightly rough texture. Near the bottom, a small wooden bowl holds a mix of black, white, and red spices, and next to it, a bowl of smooth white cream or milk completes the set. The whole scene is lit by natural light with clear shadows, showing different textures and colors clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and herbaceous freshness in this sauce. Each element plays a crucial role in bringing out distinct layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe truly shine.

Extra virgin olive oil: Use high quality for a smooth base and beautiful mouthfeel.
Yellow onion: Diced small to melt into sweetness and depth without overpowering.
Fresh garlic: Minced finely to add aromatic warmth and savory notes.
Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements tomato and basil perfectly.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally—start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust.
Red pepper flakes: Adds just the right touch of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
Full fat coconut milk: The star ingredient for creamy texture without dairy.
Tomato pasta sauce or crushed tomatoes: Brings acidity and rich tomato flavor.
Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes: Concentrated sweetness and umami that deepens the sauce.
Cane sugar (optional): Balances acidity if needed, added towards the end.
Fresh chopped basil: Tossed in at the end for vibrant, herbal brightness.
Pasta of choice: Something sturdy like rigatoni that holds the sauce beautifully.
Fresh basil for garnish: Adds that elegant finishing touch and visual appeal.

How to Make Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook these together until the onions turn translucent and the garlic releases its incredible aroma, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is where your sauce begins building that savory foundation.

Step 2: Season and Enhance Flavors

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, sea salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and cook for a couple more minutes to toast the herbs and spices lightly. This enhances their flavor and prepares the base for the creamy coconut and tomato mixture.

Step 3: Add Coconut Milk and Tomatoes

Pour in the full fat coconut milk along with your chosen tomato pasta sauce or crushed tomatoes. Toss in the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes too. These ingredients create a rich, creamy yet tangy blend that sets this sauce apart. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Allow it to cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the sauce will reduce by roughly half, thickening up and concentrating all those vibrant flavors perfectly.

Step 5: Cook Pasta and Combine

While the sauce simmers, prepare your pasta according to the package directions, aiming for al dente for the best texture. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it into the sauce, coating each piece thoroughly so every bite bursts with flavor. The sauce will thicken even more as it cools slightly.

Step 6: Add Fresh Basil, Sugar, and Adjust Seasoning

Finally, stir in the fresh chopped basil, and if you choose, a pinch of cane sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. Now your Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil Recipe is ready to wow!

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil Recipe

A close-up view of rigatoni pasta mixed with a rich, red tomato sauce, with visible herbs and small bits of sun-dried tomatoes scattered throughout. The pasta pieces are cylindrical and smooth, coated evenly in the glossy sauce, and some pieces show a bit of steam or shine that gives a fresh, warm look. The dish sits inside a light gray pot with handles on the sides, and a wooden spoon is partially visible, showing some sauce and pasta stuck to it. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A handful of fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top adds a burst of fresh aroma and color, making the dish instantly inviting. For a slight crunch, toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds complement the creaminess beautifully and elevate the texture.

Side Dishes

This pasta sauce pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, balancing out the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a fantastic companion, perfect for mopping up every last silky bit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner party, try serving this sauce over stuffed pasta shells or roasted vegetables. You could even drizzle some balsamic glaze over the plated dish for an elegant touch that enhances the sweet and tangy profile of the sun-dried tomatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can refrigerate any leftover Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil Recipe in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making the next serving just as delightful.

Freezing

This sauce freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. To avoid texture changes to the basil, it’s best to add fresh basil when reheating rather than freezing it with the sauce.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to reincorporate any separated coconut milk. Adding a splash of water or vegetable broth can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer. Finish with fresh basil for brightness.

FAQs

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full fat?

While you can substitute light coconut milk, the sauce will be less creamy and rich. For the best texture and flavor, full fat coconut milk is recommended.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free pasta if you need the entire dish to be gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled tofu, chickpeas, or sautéed mushrooms are fantastic vegan-friendly proteins that pair well with this sauce.

How spicy is the sauce?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking. Feel free to reduce or omit them if you prefer mild flavors.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead and reheat it before serving. Just remember to add fresh basil at serving time to maintain its vibrant flavor.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Creamy Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil Recipe a try because it’s a deliciously creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that adds a fresh, vibrant twist to classic pasta nights. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special but comes together so effortlessly, it’ll brighten up your weeknight dinners and impress guests alike. Happy cooking and even happier eating!