Quick and Easy Pasta Recipe for Busy Weeknights

5 stars
4.52 (12)
Quick and Easy Pasta Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 18, 2023

This quick and flavorful weekday pasta recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want to prepare a delicious meal in no time. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a satisfying pasta dish on the table in just minutes. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein. Plus, it's budget-friendly and suitable for vegetarians or meat-lovers alike. This recipe is a lifesaver for those hectic weekdays!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces of pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Add the sliced zucchini and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Season the vegetables with red pepper flakes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors mingle and the pasta to heat through.
  6. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
  7. Enjoy your quick and delicious weekday pasta!

Interesting Facts

  • Pasta is one of the most popular dishes in Italy and has various shapes and sizes.
  • Italian cuisine is known for its simplicity and the focus on high-quality ingredients.
  • Pasta is a versatile food that can be paired with a wide range of sauces and toppings.
  • Cooking pasta al dente ensures that it retains a firm texture and is more satisfying to eat.
  • Adding vegetables to pasta not only enhances the flavor but also provides a nutritional boost.
  • Using olive oil as a base in this recipe adds a healthy fat and rich flavor to the dish.
  • Fresh basil leaves add a touch of freshness and aroma to the finished pasta dish.
  • Garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to the pasta.