Print

Fasta Pasta: The Ultimate 30-Minute Recipe to Savor Now

Fasta Pasta plated on white marble countertop
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

There’s something magical about a meal that comes together in 30 minutes and still feels like a warm hug. Meet Fasta Pasta — a fast, flavorful, and flexible dish that turns pantry staples into pasta perfection. Featuring caramelized garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a whisper of heat from red pepper flakes, this go-to spaghetti recipe is comforting, customizable, and ideal for busy weeknights or effortless meal prep. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just hangry, this one-pan pasta delivers.

  • Author: Julia Hartman
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Base:

  • 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or penne (use gluten-free if needed)

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Vegetables:

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup chopped spinach (optional)

Flavor Enhancers:

  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu

  • Fresh basil, lemon zest, or capers

Instructions

  • 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.

 

  • Plate & Serve
    Serve hot with a final sprinkle of cheese and fresh basil. Optional: finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Notes

  • Out of cherry tomatoes? Use canned diced tomatoes, drained.

  • No fresh garlic? Garlic powder (½ tsp) can substitute in a pinch.

  • Make it vegan: Use nutritional yeast and omit animal-based proteins.

  • Spice it up: Add chili crisp or harissa for bold heat.

 

  • Meal prep tip: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savordelish.com/fasta-pasta-recipe/