Quick, tasty pasta with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan, perfect for a simple Italian-inspired meal.
# What you'll need:
→ Pasta
01 - 7 oz dried spaghetti
→ 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)
# Method:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
02 - While pasta cooks, warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant without browning.
03 - Incorporate cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices.
04 - Add drained spaghetti directly to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a silky, cohesive sauce.
05 - Remove from heat and fold in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Serve immediately garnished with additional Parmesan and torn basil leaves if desired.
