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.
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
- 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.
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.