Easy Pasta
As I stood at my stovetop, waiting for the water to boil, I couldn't help but think about the simple joys of a well-cooked pasta dish. The smell of sizzling garlic and olive oil filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.
The sound of the pasta hitting the water was like music to my ears, a signal that dinner was just a few minutes away. I added a pinch of salt and a drizzle of oil to the pot, watching as the pasta began to dance in the bubbling water.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Easy Pasta
To make this easy pasta, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including pasta, marinara sauce, and some grated Parmesan cheese.
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
- 2 cups (475ml) marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh mozzarella cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients, let's move on to the cooking process. This easy pasta recipe is a breeze to make, and with just a few simple steps, you'll be enjoying a delicious homemade meal in no time.
- First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it's al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Next, add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
- Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander and add it to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure it's well coated, then season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
- Finally, transfer the pasta to a serving dish and top it with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top and serve immediately.
Note on food safety: Always check the internal temperature of your cooked pasta to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What to Serve with Easy Pasta
The beauty of this easy pasta dish lies in its simplicity, making it the perfect canvas for a variety of complementary sides. The key is to find a balance between contrasting flavors and textures that will cut through the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: A classic Italian staple, garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this easy pasta. The crispy crust and soft interior provide a satisfying crunch, while the pungency of the garlic enhances the overall flavor of the dish. I love serving garlic bread on the side, allowing each person to tear into the warm, cheesy bread and dip it into the marinara sauce.
Roasted Broccoli: For a lighter and healthier option, roasted broccoli is an excellent choice. The bitterness of the broccoli cuts through the richness of the pasta, while its tender texture provides a pleasant contrast. To add some extra flavor, I like to toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast it in the oven until it's tender and caramelized.
Caprese Salad: A simple salad of sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, provides a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta. The sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella balance out the acidity of the vinegar, creating a well-rounded and satisfying side dish. I often make this salad in the summer, when fresh tomatoes are at their peak, and serve it alongside the pasta for a light and easy meal.
Grilled Asparagus: For a more substantial side, grilled asparagus is an excellent option. The charred exterior and tender interior provide a nice textural contrast, while the bitterness of the asparagus cuts through the richness of the pasta. To add some extra flavor, I like to brush the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice before grilling it until it's tender and slightly charred.
Sauteed Spinach: Quickly cooked with garlic and lemon juice, sauteed spinach is a nutritious and flavorful side that complements the pasta nicely. The bitterness of the spinach is balanced by the acidity of the lemon, creating a bright and refreshing flavor profile. I often make this side dish in the winter, when spinach is at its peak, and serve it alongside the pasta for a comforting and healthy meal.
Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Canned or marinated artichoke hearts are a convenient and tasty side that pairs well with the easy pasta. The sweetness of the artichokes balances out the acidity of the marinara sauce, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. I like to serve artichoke hearts on the side, allowing each person to add them to their pasta as desired.
Italian-Style Green Beans: Blanched green beans, tossed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, provide a light and refreshing side that complements the pasta nicely. The crunch of the green beans and the brightness of the lemon juice cut through the richness of the pasta, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. I often make this side dish in the summer, when green beans are at their peak, and serve it alongside the pasta for a light and easy meal.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread, topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil, is a classic Italian appetizer that also makes a great side dish. The crunch of the bread and the freshness of the tomatoes provide a satisfying textural contrast, while the acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the pasta. I like to serve bruschetta on the side, allowing each person to assemble their own snack or side dish.
Storage and Serving Tips
To store leftover pasta, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or marinara sauce to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley to give it a fresh boost of flavor.
For longer-term storage, consider freezing the cooked pasta in airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen pasta will keep for up to 3 months and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Conclusion
This easy pasta dish is a staple in my kitchen, and I'm sure it will become one in yours too. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it's the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend dinner.
Easy Pasta
A simple and delicious pasta dish made with spaghetti, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese. This easy pasta recipe is a breeze to make and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal.
📝 Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
- 2 cups (475ml) marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh mozzarella cheese (optional)
🍳 Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Cheese grater
👨🍳 Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it's al dente.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti in the marinara sauce, then season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and top it with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
📝 Notes
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite protein, such as cooked chicken or sausage, or by using different types of pasta or sauce.