Pin it A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
I discovered Lazy-Girl Pasta on a busy weeknight when I had little energy left to cook. This dish became my go-to comfort meal, especially when I craved something tasty without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 200 g dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely sliced
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Cherry tomatoes: 100 g, halved
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Parmesan cheese: 20 g grated (plus more for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves: Handful, 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.
- Prepare sauce base:
- While the 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 the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Pin it This pasta recipe is a favorite around our table, especially when my sister comes over hungry. The sound of pasta twirling and laughter in the kitchen adds extra flavor every time.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Notes
For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula for extra greens. Pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 14 g (per serving)
Pin it Serve Lazy-Girl Pasta piping hot, with extra cheese and fresh basil for best results.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the sauce silky?
Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually while tossing pasta with the sautéed ingredients. The starch helps create a smooth, velvety sauce.
- → Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes, red pepper flakes can be added or omitted based on your preferred spice level for subtle warmth.
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Spaghetti or similar long, thin pasta holds the sauce well, but you can use your favorite dried pasta shape.
- → How to make this dish vegan?
Simply leave out the Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
- → What herbs complement this pasta?
Fresh basil leaves add aromatic freshness and a slight sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce.