Save A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
I first made this Lazy-Girl Pasta when I was short on time and wanted something delicious and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
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
- Make 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.
- Prepare sauce:
- 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.
- Cook tomatoes:
- Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Combine and toss:
- Add 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 This is the pasta dish my family always requests when everyone is hungry and time is short. It brings everyone to the table in minutes.
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
Notes
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 like Pinot Grigio.
Save Enjoy this simple pasta anytime you crave something satisfying and quick. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor!
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta type works best?
Dried spaghetti or any favorite pasta holds the sauce well and cooks quickly, making it perfect for this dish.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, red pepper flakes are optional. Add more for heat or omit for a milder flavor.
- → How can I make it vegan-friendly?
Simply skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan.
- → What’s the purpose of reserved pasta water?
Adding pasta water helps create a silky sauce by loosening the tomato mixture and coating the pasta evenly.
- → Can I add extra greens?
Yes, a handful of baby spinach or arugula can be stirred in for added color and nutrients.