Pasta is a staple in many kitchens because it’s quick, versatile, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or rich and comforting, these five simple pasta dishes are perfect for any night of the week.
1. Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti (Aglio e Olio)
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook until garlic is golden brown.
- Add the drained pasta to the pan, tossing it with the garlic oil. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
2. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
3. Pasta Primavera
Ingredients:
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add zucchini, bell pepper, and tomatoes, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the vegetables, adding Parmesan cheese and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pasta with Pesto Sauce
Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
- In a separate bowl, toss the hot pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated.
- Top with toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan if desired.
5. Baked Ziti
Ingredients:
- 8 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil.
These five simple pasta dishes are perfect for any night of the week. They are quick to prepare, full of flavor, and can be made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you prefer a creamy dish or a fresh, light option, there’s a recipe here for everyone!
