Pin this A quick, flavorful pasta dish made with minimal ingredients for maximum taste and minimal effort.
I first made Lazy-Girl Pasta after a long day when I wanted something satisfying but didn&t want to spend ages in the kitchen. It&s become my go-to for weeknights, and friends always ask for the recipe.
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.
- Make Sauce
- 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.
- Add 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.
- Toss Pasta
- 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
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Pin this This pasta is such a hit with my family that my little cousin requests it every time she visits. It always brings everyone together around the table for a comforting meal.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, colander, chefs knife, wooden spoon
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 430 calories, 16 g total fat, 59 g carbohydrates, 14 g protein
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.
Pin this Enjoy your Lazy-Girl Pasta with extra cheese and basil for the perfect comfort meal. Cleanup is just as easy as the prep!
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta type works best?
Spaghetti or your favorite dried pasta cooks evenly and holds the sauce well for this dish.
- → Can I omit the cheese?
Yes, skipping Parmesan creates a vegan-friendly flavor; plant-based alternatives also work nicely.
- → How do I prevent garlic from burning?
Sauté garlic over medium heat briefly until fragrant but avoid browning to maintain a mild, sweet taste.
- → What adds extra heat to this dish?
Red pepper flakes provide a subtle spicy kick, adjustable to your heat preference.
- → Can I add greens to this pasta?
Adding baby spinach or arugula before serving brightens flavors and boosts nutrition without overpowering.