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Effortless Pasta Recipe Ideas for Delicious Weeknight Dinners - Featured Image

Effortless Pasta Recipe Ideas for Delicious Weeknight Dinners


  • Author: Jenny
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe ideas easy. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.


Ingredients

Scale

  • 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Feel free to substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, or add a handful of spinach for a nutritional boost.


Instructions

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add the canned tomatoes, dried basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine, then let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
  5. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Allow the pasta to absorb the flavors for a couple of minutes over low heat.
  6. Serve the pasta topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. Enjoy a meal that warms both the heart and the soul!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: pasta recipe ideas easy, recipe, cooking, food