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Easy Pasta with crispy potato crust and vegetable filling a white plate overhead view

Easy Pasta

By Emma
Owner & Founder

As I stood at my stovetop, the sizzling of garlic and onion in olive oil signaled the start of a comforting dish - easy pasta. The aroma wafting from the pan was a promise of the satisfying meal to come, with the sound of simmering tomatoes and the sight of tender pasta filling my kitchen with warmth.

The key to a great easy pasta is in its simplicity, allowing each ingredient to shine while blending together in harmony. It's a dish that can be tailored to suit any taste, from the addition of spicy red pepper flakes to the richness of grated Parmesan cheese.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Easy Pasta

To make this easy pasta, we'll need a few basic ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
  • 8 oz (weight) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
  • 2 tbsp (liquid measure) olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Easy Pasta with crispy potato crust and vegetable filling a white plate overhead view

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let's move on to the steps to prepare this delicious easy pasta dish.
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente, then reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's lightly golden and fragrant, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the chopped onion and continue cooking until the onion is translucent.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine, then let the sauce simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Combine the cooked pasta and the tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Note on customization: Feel free to add your favorite protein (e.g., cooked sausage, chicken, or shrimp) or vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach) to the skillet with the garlic and onion for added flavor and nutrition.

What to Serve with Easy Pasta

The beauty of easy pasta lies in its versatility and the opportunity to pair it with a variety of dishes that contrast or complement its rich, savory flavor. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the pasta.

Roasted Asparagus: The slightly charred, tender asparagus spears offer a delightful contrast in texture to the soft pasta, while their earthy flavor complements the bright, tomatoey sauce. I often reach for this side when I want to add some green to my plate.
Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent option, serving easy pasta alongside garlic bread allows for a satisfying crunch and an additional burst of flavor. The richness of the butter and the pungency of the garlic on the bread complement the pasta beautifully.
Grilled Chicken Breast: Adding some grilled chicken breast, seasoned with herbs like thyme and rosemary, introduces a lean protein that cuts through the richness of the pasta. The slightly charred exterior of the chicken also adds a smoky depth to the meal.
Sauteed Spinach: Quickly cooking a handful of spinach with garlic in the same skillet used for the pasta sauce adds a nutrient-packed side that complements the dish without overpowering it. The wilted spinach also absorbs the flavorful sauce nicely.
Caprese Salad: A colorful Caprese salad, with its creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, provides a cool and refreshing side that echoes the flavors in the pasta sauce, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Marinated Artichoke Hearts: The tangy, slightly sweet flavor of marinated artichoke hearts adds a unique dimension to the meal. Their soft, tender texture also pairs well with the al dente pasta.
Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet and slightly smoky, roasted bell peppers bring a pop of color and a depth of flavor that complements the easy pasta nicely. They can be roasted ahead of time, making them a convenient side dish.
Easy Pasta with crispy potato crust and vegetable filling a white plate overhead view

Storage and Serving Tips

To store easy pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a bit of water or reserved pasta water if the sauce has thickened too much.

For the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to reheat the pasta gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving can enhance the flavors.

Easy pasta is also a versatile dish for meal prep. Consider portioning it out into individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

This easy pasta recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, well-made dishes that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Its comforting flavors and satisfying texture make it a staple in many kitchens, and its versatility ensures it will never go out of style.
Easy Pasta with crispy potato crust and vegetable filling a white plate overhead view

Easy Pasta

A comforting and versatile pasta dish made with garlic, onion, diced tomatoes, and basil, served with grated Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Rest Time
0 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Serves: 4 people Course: Light Dinner, Lunch, Salad Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired Calories: 420 per serving

📝 Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta of your choice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

🍳 Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cheese grater

👨‍🍳 Method

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook garlic and onion until softened
  3. Add diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano to the skillet and simmer
  4. Combine cooked pasta and tomato sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste

📝 Notes

Customize with your favorite protein or vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.