Perfect Pasta for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

Looking for a versatile and satisfying recipe that can be prepared quickly? If you're searching for easy pasta recipes, this guide will help you create a delicious homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Pasta dishes are beloved by many as they offer a balance of carbs, protein, and vegetables which contribute to a healthy meal. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty dinner that's both comforting and quick.

Let’s get started with the ingredients you need:

• 8 ounces pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including preparation time)Number of Servings: 4-6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions:

To begin, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water generously for pasta seasoning. Once it reaches boiling point, add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent (about 5 minutes).

Add minced garlic to the pan and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds. It's crucial not to burn the garlic as this would impart an unpleasant bitterness to your dish.

Topping and Serving:

After the garlic has browned slightly but hasn't yet turned black, add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Allow these to cook down until they start breaking apart. This process will release their natural juices which adds flavor and moisture to your pasta.

Once the tomato mixture has simmered for approximately 10 minutes, remove it from heat. Toss in torn basil leaves and mix gently with a spoon or spatula to ensure the fresh herbs are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

Assembling Your Pasta:

Drain your cooked pasta, reserving about half a cup of pasta water. It’s essential here because it helps enrich the sauce by incorporating some starch from the noodles into the mixture. Return the drained pasta to the pot and add the tomato-onion-garlic mixture along with some reserved pasta water.

Mix everything thoroughly until all components meld together seamlessly creating a creamy yet not overly thick sauce. Taste your dish, adding more salt or pepper if needed before serving.

Optional Enhancements:

• Garnishing: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each serving for extra richness and flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair this pasta with a side salad for a more complete meal. Alternatively, add grilled chicken or shrimp as protein sources if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Choose the right pasta: For best results, select an al dente texture that maintains some firmness when cooked. This type of pasta pairs well with sauce and doesn't become waterlogged easily.
• Serve promptly: Pasta tends to absorb more liquid over time; therefore, serve it as soon after cooking as possible for optimal flavor.

Conclusion:

A simple yet scrumptious pasta dish made from basic ingredients can be a delightful change from takeout or prepackaged meals. By following these straightforward steps and tips, you’ll enjoy a fulfilling weeknight dinner that’s equally convenient and enjoyable for the whole family. Experiment with different types of pasta or add your favorite vegetables to this base recipe to keep things interesting!

Remember, cooking should be a joy—so take time to explore new flavors and techniques while sticking to these core principles. Happy cooking!