Are you craving a delicious Italian meal but short on time? Look no further! The "Quick Meal Pasta Susanna" is here to save the day with its vibrant flavors and effortless preparation. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a pasta dish that feels like a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen. With fresh cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, this recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes. Ready to impress your family or guests? Let’s dive into this quick culinary adventure!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. The water should taste slightly salty like seawater.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their natural juices.
- Drain the cooked pasta and transfer directly into the skillet with tomatoes and garlic. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently mix to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Salt Your Water: Make sure the water is salty enough; it should taste like the sea! This is crucial for enhancing the flavor of your pasta.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant—about 30-45 seconds. Burning it will lead to a bitter taste in your dish.
- Customize Your Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand. Whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, they all work beautifully with this sauce.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to the dish.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Dried herbs just won’t give you the same aromatic punch.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. The flavors are at their peak, and the pasta is perfectly al dente.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 278kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
