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Easy Pantry Staples Pasta Recipe for Quick Delicious Dinners

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A quick and easy pasta recipe using simple pantry staples like pasta, canned tomatoes, garlic, and dried herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 14-ounce (400 grams) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb mix (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9 to 11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
  3. Add 3 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and just turning golden, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herb mix to the skillet. Toast for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release the flavors.
  5. Pour in one 14-ounce (400-gram) can of diced tomatoes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Transfer the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
  7. Check seasoning and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped fresh basil or parsley if available.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles. Toast dried herbs in olive oil to enhance flavor. Avoid burning garlic by stirring constantly and using medium heat. Adjust seasoning and acidity with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of sugar if needed. Use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese alternatives for dietary adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: easy pasta recipe, pantry staples, quick dinner, canned tomatoes pasta, garlic pasta, weeknight meal, simple pasta sauce

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/easy-pantry-staples-pasta-recipe-for-quick-delicious-dinners/