Pin it A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
This pasta became my go-to on evenings when I crave comfort without spending hours in the kitchen. Even the simplest combination of garlic, olive oil, and fresh tomatoes brings out rich flavor, perfect for a busy weeknight.
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.
- Add Tomatoes:
- Add the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Combine & Toss:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for silky sauce.
- Finish:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.
Pin it My family loves this pasta alongside a salad or garlic bread, and it always disappears quickly on cool nights.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (Parmesan cheese). Check cheese labels for vegetarian suitability.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 14 g
Pin it This dish proves that delicious meals do not require hours or complicated steps. Enjoy every bite and feel free to riff with any favorite add-ins.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Dried spaghetti is ideal, but you can use your favorite long pasta for a similar texture and flavor.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, omit the Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based alternative to maintain richness without dairy.
- → How do I achieve a silky sauce?
Adding reserved pasta water to the skillet helps bind the sauce and coat the pasta smoothly.
- → Is red pepper flakes necessary?
They are optional but add a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
- → What can I add for extra greens?
Baby spinach or arugula tossed in just before serving adds freshness and texture.