🍝 20-Minute Quick Pasta
Simple yet flavorful pasta dish with minimal ingredients - perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, basil
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
- Make sauce: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (don't let garlic brown).
- Combine: Add drained pasta to the pan with garlic oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Finish: Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 | 23% |
| Total Fat | 14g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 10mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 200mg | 9% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 65g | 24% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Chef's Tips
- Salt the pasta water well - it should taste like seawater.
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of butter at the end.
- Try adding cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add great flavor and color.