Pin A quick flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
This recipe saved me on busy nights when I needed good food fast. Everyone is always surprised by how much flavor comes from so few ingredients.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 200 g dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Sauce: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (finely sliced), 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), 100 g cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 tsp salt, freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Finishing: 20 g grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving), handful fresh basil leaves (torn, optional)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare Sauce:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Tomatoes:
- Add the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 4 minutes stirring occasionally until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Pin I remember making this pasta for a family movie night—it disappeared before the previews started. Now it is my go-to for easy weeknight comfort.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (Parmesan cheese), check cheese labels for vegetarian suitability if needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories 430, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 59 g, Protein 14 g per serving
Pin A bowl of this pasta with fresh basil will make any evening feel special — enjoy every bite!
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any dried pasta such as penne or linguine can be used; cooking times may vary slightly depending on shape.
- → How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.
- → What is the purpose of reserved pasta water?
Adding reserved pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings well to the pasta.
- → Can I add greens to this dish?
Yes, stirring in baby spinach or arugula before serving adds freshness and nutrition.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors nicely.
