Save A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
I first made this when I needed dinner in a hurry but still craved something comforting and tasty. The simplicity of fresh garlic and tomatoes with a good splash of olive oil always reminds me how satisfying Italian-inspired meals can be, even on lazy days.
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 of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic:
- 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.
- Tomatoes & Seasoning:
- Add the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Combine Pasta & 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 & 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 Sharing this with my family, we love how everyone can add their own extra Parmesan or basil right at the table. Even picky eaters always come back for seconds.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Nutritional Information
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 14 g per serving
Recipe Variations
For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula for extra greens. Pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio.
Save This pasta is a delicious lifesaver on busy nights and tastes even better as leftovers. It will quickly become a go-to in your dinner routine.
Recipe Help
- → What type of pasta works best?
Dry spaghetti or your favorite long pasta suits this dish perfectly, holding the sauce well.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, adding or omitting red pepper flakes lets you control the heat to your taste.
- → Is Parmesan necessary?
Parmesan adds a savory finish but can be replaced with plant-based cheese for a vegan option.
- → How do I get a silky sauce?
Reserve some pasta water and add it while tossing the pasta to create a smooth, cohesive sauce.
- → Can I add greens to this dish?
Yes, baby spinach or arugula can be stirred in at the end for extra freshness and nutrients.