Lazy-Girl Quick Flavorful Pasta (Print Version)

A simple, flavorful pasta featuring cherry tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan in under 20 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 7 oz dried spaghetti or preferred pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
04 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
05 - 3.5 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Finishing

08 - 3/4 oz grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
09 - A handful fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant without browning.
03 - Add halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices.
04 - Add drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat, incorporating reserved pasta water gradually to form a smooth sauce.
05 - Remove skillet from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
06 - Plate immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan and torn basil leaves if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes
  • Minimal ingredients and clean-up
02 -
  • Contains gluten (wheat) and dairy (Parmesan cheese)
  • You can easily make it vegan by using a plant-based cheese
03 -
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor
  • Add some baby spinach or arugula to boost greens
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