Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you love a delicious home-cooked meal but don’t always have hours to spend in the kitchen. Well, I’ve got just the recipe for you—this quick and easy pasta dish is a lifesaver! You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests come knocking. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked! The combination of aromatic garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a hint of heat from chili flakes creates a vibrant burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s all about simplicity without skimping on taste!
Ingredients List
Let’s gather our ingredients for this quick and easy pasta dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 200g pasta (I love using spaghetti or penne, but feel free to choose your favorite type!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (Extra virgin olive oil works wonders for flavor!)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (Don’t skimp on the garlic—it adds a lovely aroma and depth.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (These sweet little gems burst with flavor—yum!)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (Adjust to your heat preference; I like it spicy!)
- Salt to taste (A little sprinkle brings everything together!)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (Nothing beats the fresh smell of basil—it’s the perfect finishing touch!)
Feel free to switch things up! If you’re looking for a low-carb option, zucchini noodles are a fantastic substitute for traditional pasta. You can also add in some spinach or bell peppers for extra veggies. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make this dish your own!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s super straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt—this helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Toss in 200g of your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. You want it firm to the bite, so don’t forget to taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up! Once it’s perfect, drain the pasta but save a cup of that starchy cooking water—it’s liquid gold for later!
Sautéing the Aromatics
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it—garlic burns quickly! You’re looking for it to just turn golden and fragrant. That smell is heavenly, isn’t it? Now, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst. This is where the flavors really come together!
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to combine everything! Once your pasta is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and tomatoes. Mix it all together, and don’t be shy about getting in there! If it seems a little dry, splash in some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste and let it all cook together for an additional 2 minutes. This helps the pasta soak up all those delicious flavors. And voilà! Your quick and easy pasta dish is ready to serve, garnished with those fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: You can have this delicious pasta dish ready in under 30 minutes!
- Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, cherry tomatoes, and chili flakes delivers a burst of vibrant flavors.
- Healthy choice: With fresh ingredients and the option to add veggies, it’s a nutritious meal!
- Customizable: Switch up the pasta or add your favorite vegetables for a personal twist.
- Minimal cleanup: It’s all made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite pro tips to take your quick and easy pasta dish from good to great! First, always taste your pasta a minute or two before the package cooking time is up—this ensures it’s perfectly al dente. When sautéing the garlic, make sure to keep the heat moderate; if it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat to avoid bitterness. And don’t forget to reserve that pasta water! It’s fantastic for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helps everything cling beautifully. Lastly, fresh basil should be added just before serving to keep its vibrant flavor and color intact. Happy cooking!
Variations
There are so many fun ways to mix things up with this quick and easy pasta dish! For a protein boost, try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different vegetables—spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can add great flavor and nutrition. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some olives or capers for a briny kick! If you’re a cheese lover, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or feta can elevate the dish even more. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so let your taste buds guide you and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your quick and easy pasta dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking and keep everything moist. Stir occasionally until heated through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, but be careful not to overcook it! Enjoy your delicious pasta again!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. For each serving, you can expect approximately 450 calories, 18g of fat, 12g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. Enjoy your meal while being mindful of these values!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! One common query I hear is about cooking times—how long should I really cook the pasta? Generally, 8-10 minutes is perfect for al dente, but always check the package for specific guidance. If I want to substitute ingredients, can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can add delightful flavors and textures. For those looking for a gluten-free option, using gluten-free pasta works beautifully! And if I’m prepping this meal for a crowd, can I double the recipe? Yes, just be sure to use a larger skillet or make it in batches to keep everything cooking evenly. Don’t hesitate to get creative—this dish is all about simplicity and adaptability!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out this classic pasta dish or this quick pasta dinner!
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recipes easy quick: 5 Simple Tips for Delicious Success
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for a delicious pasta dish that can be made in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and chili flakes, cooking for 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet, mixing well.
- Season with salt to taste and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- You can substitute pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: recipes easy quick
