Fast, tasty pasta with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan in under 20 minutes.
# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta
01 - 7 oz dried spaghetti
→ Sauce
02 - 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
04 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
05 - 3.5 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1/2 tsp salt
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Finishing
08 - 0.7 oz grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
09 - Handful fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant without letting it brown.
03 - Add halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release their juices.
04 - Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a smooth, silky sauce.
05 - Remove the skillet from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Plate immediately, topping with additional Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired.
