Save to Pinterest A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
I first made this lazy-girl pasta on a busy weeknight when I wanted something comforting yet fuss-free. It surprised me how full of flavor it was for such little work!
Ingredients
- Pasta: 200 g dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely sliced
- Red pepper flakes (optional): 1/2 tsp
- Cherry tomatoes: 100 g, halved
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 20 g (plus more for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): Handful, torn
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Instructions
- Cook the 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.
- Make the sauce:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and saute 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 the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- 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.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Save to Pinterest This pasta has become a favorite for those evenings when my family craves something tasty but I want to keep it simple. Everyone always asks for seconds!
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 14 g
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio and an easy green salad.
Save to Pinterest This lazy-girl pasta proves that with a few simple ingredients, you can create something special. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
Dried spaghetti or any long pasta handles this dish well, offering a perfect texture with the light sauce.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, include or omit red pepper flakes to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → How do I make the sauce silky?
Adding reserved pasta water while tossing helps create a smooth, cohesive sauce coating the noodles.
- → Are there vegan alternatives for the cheese?
You can skip the Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based cheese substitute for a vegan option.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
Fresh basil adds brightness and aroma, complementing the garlic and tomato base beautifully.
