Save A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
I first cooked Lazy-Girl Pasta on a night when I was craving something comforting but had little time or energy. It became my instant go-to meal for busy evenings.
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)
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.
- 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.
- Tomatoes & Seasoning:
- Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes start to soften and release juices.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Cheese & Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Save Sometimes, my family gathers in the kitchen sharing stories as pasta boils. The aromas always invite everyone to the table before dinner is served.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (Parmesan cheese). Check cheese labels for vegetarian suitability as needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 430, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 59 g, Protein 14 g
Save This pasta is best enjoyed hot and fresh for a quick taste of comfort. Savor its simplicity and flavor with every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best?
Dried spaghetti or any long pasta like linguine works well to hold the sauce without overpowering it.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness?
Yes, red pepper flakes are optional. Add more or less to suit your preferred heat level.
- → How do I make the sauce silky?
Reserve some pasta water and add it while tossing pasta to help the sauce cling and create a smooth texture.
- → Are there vegan finishing options?
Yes, omit Parmesan or substitute it with plant-based cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.
- → Can I add greens to this dish?
Baby spinach or arugula can be stirred in at the end for extra freshness and nutrition.