Flavorful pasta with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan, ready in just 20 minutes.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ 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 - 3/4 oz grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
09 - Handful fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant without browning.
03 - Add halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes, if using. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release their juices.
04 - Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky sauce consistency.
05 - Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Plate immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan and torn fresh basil leaves if desired.
