Save to Pinterest A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
This pasta was my go-to last year when I wanted satisfying comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. It hits the spot every time, especially when I am short on time but craving something homemade.
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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)
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Instructions
- Cook 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 pasta water and drain.
- Make Sauce:
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Tomatoes & Flavor:
- Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook 4 to 5 minutes, stirring until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Combine Pasta:
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, splash in reserved pasta water as needed for silky sauce.
- Finish & Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve topped with extra Parmesan and basil.
Save to Pinterest I love making this dish on busy nights—my family always asks for seconds and we enjoy it together at the kitchen table.
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Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (Parmesan cheese)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 14 g
Save to Pinterest 
This pasta delivers big flavor with little effort—a perfect weeknight staple you’ll crave again and again.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the sauce silky?
Reserve some pasta cooking water and add it gradually when tossing the pasta in the skillet. This starchy water helps create a smooth, silky sauce.
- → Can I omit Parmesan cheese?
Yes, for vegan or dairy-free options, leave out Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative to keep it creamy and flavorful.
- → What pasta works best?
Dried spaghetti is traditional, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
- → Can I add extra greens?
Adding baby spinach or arugula near the end of cooking provides a fresh, vibrant touch without overwhelming the dish.
- → How spicy is this pasta?
Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to taste, offering a gentle heat that complements the garlic and tomatoes.
