Save A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
The first time I made this Lazy-Girl Pasta, I honestly couldn&t believe something so fast could turn out so delicious. It&s become my go-to when I want real comfort without fuss.
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)
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Instructions
- Boil 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.
- Prep 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.
- Add Tomatoes & Seasoning:
- Add the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding 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 topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Save This pasta has saved many hurried weeknight dinners for my family, especially when everyone wants something homemade but I&m tired.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (Parmesan cheese). For strict vegetarians, check cheese packaging.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 430, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 59 g, Protein 14 g
Save This recipe proves that minimal effort can deliver maximum flavor. Enjoy your pasta as is, or dress it up with your favorite add-ins.
Recipe Guide
- → How do you prevent garlic from burning while cooking?
Cook garlic on medium heat and stir frequently, removing from heat once fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, dried spaghetti or similar long pasta works best, but feel free to use favorites like linguine or fettuccine.
- → How does reserved pasta water improve the sauce?
Starchy pasta water helps create a smooth, silky sauce that clings to the pasta evenly.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan to make it vegan?
Use plant-based cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast to add a savory, cheesy flavor.
- → Is it necessary to add fresh basil?
Fresh basil adds a bright herbal note but can be omitted or replaced with other fresh greens like arugula.
