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.
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)
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.
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.
Save 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.