Why Make This Recipe
This Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a tasty meal in a hurry. It’s simple to prepare, requires just a few ingredients, and delivers on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this pasta dish is sure to please.
How to Make Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and add the Italian seasoning. Stir and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine everything evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish
Serve this dish warm on a plate or in a bowl. You can add more fresh basil on top for extra flavor. If you love cheese, sprinkle some Parmesan on your pasta just before serving. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to complete your meal.
How to Store Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish
- Use any type of pasta you like: spaghetti, penne, or fusilli all work well.
- Feel free to add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream or sour cream before adding the pasta.
Variation
You can turn this dish into a meatier option by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage. Just toss the protein into the skillet after sautéing the garlic, then continue with the recipe as usual.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them and add about 2 cups to the skillet instead of the canned tomatoes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Is this pasta dish suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat. Enjoy it as is or add your favorite vegetables.
Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta Any type of pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli) can be used.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Sauté until fragrant.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes Can also use fresh tomatoes (about 2 cups).
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- Fresh basil for garnish Add extra for flavor.
- Parmesan cheese (optional) Sprinkle on top before serving.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and add the Italian seasoning. Stir and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine everything evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.