Simple Pasta Dishes That Even Beginners Can Master
Pasta is one of the easiest and most versatile dishes you can prepare, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. With a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create delicious meals that feel homemade and satisfying. Below is a straightforward recipe that anyone can follow, along with some tips to make your pasta experience even better.
Ingredients
- 200 grams of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
- Toss the pasta with the tomato and garlic mixture. If it seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper. Add fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your simple pasta dish!
Tips and Variations
- If you want to add protein, cook some diced chicken or shrimp in the pan before adding garlic and tomatoes.
- You can use an air fryer to roast cherry tomatoes for a deeper flavor. Simply toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes before adding them to the pasta.
- For a creamy twist, stir in a spoonful of cream or cream cheese at the end.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley to change up the flavor.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred, just adjust cooking time as needed.
