Easy Simple Pasta Recipe That Will Become Your Go-To Dinner

There’s something about a pasta recipe easy simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight that speaks straight to my heart. Growing up in that white farmhouse nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, food was always more than just what filled our plates—it was the thread that wove us together. Mama Lu’s kitchen wasn’t a place for fussing or fancy gadgets; it was where simple meals, made with love and a pinch of soul, brought us closer. This pasta recipe is just that kind of meal—easy, straightforward, and comforting enough to make you feel like you’re sitting on a worn porch swing, sharing stories and laughter with folks you love.

Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe easy simple

This pasta recipe easy simple is like a warm hug from home, especially when you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen but still want something hearty and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish Mama Lu would’ve nodded at with approval—nothing overcomplicated, just honest ingredients coming together in a way that’s both familiar and comforting.

What makes it so special? For starters, it’s incredibly forgiving. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe lets you lean on your instincts, much like I learned watching Mama Lu. She never measured precisely but trusted the feel of the dough or the aroma of a simmering sauce. Simple pantry staples come alive here—olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and just a handful of other ingredients create a meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

One of my fondest memories is sitting beside Mama Lu, her strong hands guiding mine as we stirred a pot of sauce, tasting and adjusting with nothing more than a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon. That’s the spirit of this recipe: simple steps, straightforward ingredients, and a whole lot of heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe easy simple

• 12 ounces dry spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape (penne or fusilli work well)
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes for convenience)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

Substitution suggestions: If you don’t have fresh basil, a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs can work in a pinch. For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or swap it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference—just adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 12g (mostly from olive oil and cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g (mainly from tomatoes)
• Sodium: 350mg (adjust based on added salt and cheese)

This balance of nutrients makes for a well-rounded meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying without tipping the scale towards heaviness. It’s the kind of dish that fuels not just your body but your spirit—a true nod to the simple, wholesome food Mama Lu taught me to cherish.

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Steps to Create Your pasta recipe easy simple

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until just shy of al dente—usually about 1-2 minutes less than what the package suggests. This keeps the pasta lively as it finishes cooking in the sauce.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté gently until the garlic turns golden and fragrant—about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn it; garlic turns bitter fast.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices. If you’re using canned tomatoes, let the sauce simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
4. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water little by little to create a silky sauce that clings to every strand.
5. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice if you like a bit of brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side and a drizzle of olive oil if you like. This dish is best enjoyed warm, fresh from the stove, but don’t worry—it keeps well for leftovers too.

One of the little secrets I picked up from Mama Lu’s kitchen was to always taste as you go. She’d say,

“Don’t be shy with the salt, and always let your food tell you what it needs.”

It’s advice I carry with me, especially in recipes as simple as this one. Learn more: Ground Beef and Pasta Perfection: 10 Irresistible Recipes to Savor

Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe easy simple

Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of the lessons Mama Lu taught me with her quiet confidence and hands dusted in flour. Here are a few tips that echo those lessons:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it just before al dente helps it soak up the sauce better and keeps the texture lively.
• Use good quality olive oil: Just like Mama Lu’s skillet cornbread wouldn’t be the same without her trusted cast iron, this dish depends on olive oil that’s fresh and flavorful.
• Toast your garlic gently: Letting garlic brown too much can ruin the whole dish. Keep the heat moderate and watch closely.
• Reserve pasta water: That starchy liquid is magic—it helps emulsify the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
• Fresh herbs matter: Basil adds brightness and freshness that dried herbs just can’t match, but in a pinch, dried will do.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste at every stage to avoid over-salting or missing the mark.

These little pointers come from years of watching Mama Lu cook without a recipe in hand, relying on intuition and love. I hope they guide you as well as they’ve guided me.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This pasta recipe easy simple is wonderfully versatile. When I first made this dish in my tiny Portland kitchen, I paired it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette—a refreshing contrast to the warm, garlicky pasta. Here are a few more ideas that bring the meal to life:

• Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, lightly seasoned with salt and pepper.
• A crusty piece of bread, especially one with a good, chewy crumb, is perfect for soaking up the sauce—Mama Lu always had fresh cornbread or biscuits ready for just such occasions.
• For protein, grilled chicken or pan-seared shrimp add a hearty touch without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• A light glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the garlic and tomato notes beautifully.

One of my favorite memories is gathering friends around the table after a long day, passing bowls of this pasta and sharing stories until the sun dipped low. It’s the kind of meal that invites connection and celebration, no matter the occasion.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Like many home-cooked meals from my childhood, this pasta recipe easy simple is even better the next day. When storing leftovers, keep the pasta and sauce together in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When it’s time to reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce’s silkiness. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or drying out. Avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to make pasta rubbery and unevenly heated.

Leftover pasta also makes a great base for a quick pasta bake. Toss with a little extra cheese, pop it under the broiler for a few minutes, and you have a cozy, crispy dish that feels like a fresh meal all over again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe easy simple?

The main ingredients for pasta recipe easy simple include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make pasta recipe easy simple?

The total time to make pasta recipe easy simple includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make pasta recipe easy simple ahead of time?

Yes, pasta recipe easy simple can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with pasta recipe easy simple?

pasta recipe easy simple pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is pasta recipe easy simple suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe easy simple may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This pasta recipe easy simple is more than just a meal—it’s a bridge between past and present, a way to bring Mama Lu’s kitchen into your home even if you’re miles away from the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to create something meaningful and nourishing.

When I cook this pasta, I’m reminded of flour-dusted aprons, the sound of stories told on a creaky porch swing, and the quiet confidence of a woman who believed that food was a language all its own. I hope it brings you the same warmth and simple joy, whether you’re feeding a family, sharing with friends, or just savoring a moment of comfort for yourself.

So next time you’re longing for a meal that feels like home, give this pasta recipe easy simple a try. Trust your instincts, taste as you go, and remember that the best recipes aren’t just written down—they’re made with heart, one loving stir at a time.