Ingredients
Pasta & Base:
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8 oz (225g) spaghetti or penne (use gluten-free if needed)
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Vegetables:
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
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½ cup chopped spinach (optional)
Flavor Enhancers:
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes
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½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
Optional Add-Ins:
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Cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu
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Fresh basil, lemon zest, or capers
Instructions
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Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain. -
Sauté the Flavor Base
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant—don’t let it burn. -
Add the Tomatoes
Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Let them blister and soften for about 4–5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper. -
Combine & Finish
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir in chopped spinach and grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast) until melted and combined. Mix in any optional protein or toppings.
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Plate & Serve
Serve hot with a final sprinkle of cheese and fresh basil. Optional: finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Notes
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Out of cherry tomatoes? Use canned diced tomatoes, drained.
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No fresh garlic? Garlic powder (½ tsp) can substitute in a pinch.
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Make it vegan: Use nutritional yeast and omit animal-based proteins.
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Spice it up: Add chili crisp or harissa for bold heat.
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Meal prep tip: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1⅓ cups
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 8mg