Save A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
I enjoy making Lazy-Girl Pasta when I want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. It's my top pick for busy weeknights and always hits the spot.
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Ingredients
- Pasta: 200 g dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Sauce: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Sauce: 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced
- Sauce: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sauce: 100 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- Sauce: 1/2 tsp salt
- Sauce: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Finishing: 20 g grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Finishing: Handful fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
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Instructions
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic:
- While 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 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Save This pasta is one of the first recipes I cooked with my sister. We laughed together while tossing the tomatoes and enjoyed every bite at the table.
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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
Serving Suggestions
Pairs perfectly with a simple green salad and a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
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Whip up Lazy-Girl Pasta when you crave deliciousness in a flash. Fresh flavors and easy prep make it impossible not to love.
Cooking Guide
- → What pasta is best for this dish?
Dried spaghetti works well but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for similar results.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- → How do I create a silky sauce?
Reserve some pasta water before draining and add it to the skillet to combine with the olive oil and tomato juices, creating a smooth sauce.
- → What adds heat to the dish?
Red pepper flakes give a gentle kick but can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
- → Are there good additions for more greens?
Adding baby spinach or arugula towards the end of cooking enhances the dish with fresh, vibrant greens.
