Quick pasta with garlic, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and Parmesan for a flavorful finish.
# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 7 oz dried spaghetti or preferred pasta
→ Sauce
02 - 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
04 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
05 - 3.5 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1/2 tsp salt
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Finishing
08 - 0.7 oz grated Parmesan cheese (plus additional for serving)
09 - Handful fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta following package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
03 - Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper, cooking for 4–5 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juice.
04 - Add drained pasta to skillet and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water gradually to create a smooth sauce.
05 - Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Plate immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and torn fresh basil if desired.
