Healthy Tomato Pasta for Quick Weeknight Meals
Tomato Garlic Pasta is a fast, 20-minute dish made with garlic-infused olive oil, burst cherry tomatoes, and herbs. Light, bold, and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or choice)
3 tbsp olive oil
4–5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Add tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 5–7 minutes.
- Lightly crush tomatoes to release juices.
- Add drained pasta and toss. Stir in reserved pasta water gradually to loosen sauce.
- Finish with herbs and parmesan. Toss until glossy.
- Serve hot with extra herbs or cheese.
Notes
Use canned tomatoes if fresh aren’t available. Add protein or veggies to customize. Omit cheese for vegan version.