Description of this recipe
This 10-Minute Comfort Food Pasta is the answer to those evenings when time is short, but the craving for a satisfying, home-cooked meal is strong. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a flavorful and comforting dish in just minutes. It’s a vibrant celebration of fresh flavors and comforting textures, all harmonizing in a quick and easy pasta dish.
Why you will love this recipe
Imagine coming home after a long day, tired and hungry, and being able to whip up a delicious and fulfilling meal in just ten minutes. That’s the magic of this recipe. It’s incredibly quick, using readily available ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. It’s also wonderfully versatile; you can adapt it to your liking with different vegetables, cheeses, or spices. More than just a meal, it’s a culinary hug, providing instant comfort and satisfaction without the fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or when you simply need a comforting, effortless meal.
Ingredients:
- Pasta (penne, fusilli, or any shape you prefer): 8 oz
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): 1 can (14 oz)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Frozen peas or mixed vegetables: 1 cup
- Salt: To taste
- Black pepper: To taste
Optional Toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, torn
- Red pepper flakes (for heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water not only seasons the pasta but also elevates the overall flavor of the dish. Once boiling, introduce 8 oz of your preferred pasta shape – penne, fusilli, rotini, or even classic spaghetti all work beautifully. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for the perfect al dente texture. Al dente, meaning “to the tooth” in Italian, refers to pasta that is tender but still firm to the bite, providing a delightful textural contrast to the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly, reserving about a half cup of the starchy pasta water. This water can be added to the sauce later if needed to adjust the consistency and create a silkier texture. Set the drained pasta aside, ready to be enveloped in the flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, turn your attention to the sauce. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Olive oil not only adds richness and flavor but also helps to prevent the garlic from sticking to the pan. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the heated oil. Stir the garlic continuously for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant and slightly softened. Be extremely careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter and unpleasant taste to the dish. The goal is to gently coax out the garlic’s aromatic essence, creating a flavorful foundation for the rest of the sauce.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Vegetables
Pour the 14 oz can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. The juice adds moisture and helps to create a luscious sauce. Stir to combine the tomatoes and garlic-infused oil, ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the tomatoes to break down slightly, creating a richer and more complex sauce.
Next, add 1 cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables directly into the skillet. There is no need to thaw them beforehand, as they will cook quickly in the heat of the sauce. Stir gently to incorporate the vegetables into the tomato mixture, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the mixture cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and heated through. Covering the skillet helps to trap the steam, ensuring that the vegetables cook evenly and retain their vibrant color and nutrients.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now comes the grand finale – bringing together the pasta and the sauce. Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the tomato-vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the savory sauce. Ensure that every strand of pasta is glistening with the vibrant colors and flavors of the sauce, creating a visually appealing and mouthwatering dish.
Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Salt enhances the overall flavors of the dish, while black pepper adds a subtle kick of spice. For those who enjoy a little extra heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the pasta into bowls or onto plates, creating generous portions that are sure to satisfy. To elevate the dish to the next level, finish with generous amounts of grated Parmesan cheese. The salty and nutty Parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory element that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the freshness of the vegetables. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish with torn fresh basil leaves. The fragrant basil not only adds a burst of flavor but also adds a vibrant pop of green that makes the dish even more enticing.
Serve the pasta warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of a homemade meal – made in minutes, but filled with flavor and love.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This pasta is delicious on its own as a quick and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with a side salad for a more complete and balanced meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a dollop of ricotta cheese for extra flavor and texture. For a more substantial meal, pair it with grilled chicken or fish.
Tips:
- To save even more time, use pre-minced garlic from a jar.
- Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, chopped bell peppers, or spinach.
- If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, try using Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese at the end.
- If you like spice add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Prep Time:
2 minutes
Cook Time:
8 minutes
Total Time:
10 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein:
15-20g per serving
Sodium:
400-500mg per serving (depending on added salt and Parmesan cheese)
Conclusion
This 10-Minute Comfort Food Pasta is a testament to the fact that delicious and satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will warm your heart and nourish your body. It’s a versatile and adaptable recipe that can be customized to your liking, making it a perfect go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on a budget, or simply someone who appreciates good food without the fuss, this pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, go ahead and give it a try – you might be surprised at how much flavor and comfort you can pack into just ten minutes!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can add a bright and vibrant flavor to the dish. If using fresh tomatoes, use about 1.5 to 2 cups of diced tomatoes. You may need to simmer them a bit longer to break them down and create a sauce-like consistency. Also, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer flavor.
Q2: I don’t have any frozen vegetables on hand. What else can I use?
A: The beauty of this recipe is its versatility! If you don’t have frozen vegetables, you can use any vegetables that you have on hand. Some great options include chopped bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or even leftover cooked vegetables. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the type of vegetable you use.
Q3: Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, it is! Simply substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are many excellent gluten-free pasta options available these days, made from ingredients like rice, corn, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just be sure to cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions, as cooking times may vary.
Q4: Can I add protein to this dish to make it more filling?
A: Definitely! Adding protein will make this pasta dish even more satisfying and nutritious. Some great protein options include grilled chicken or shrimp, cooked sausage, canned tuna or chickpeas. Simply add the protein to the skillet along with the vegetables and tomatoes, and cook until heated through.
Q5: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: If you like a little heat, there are several ways to spice up this pasta dish. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or you can use a spicy Italian sausage instead of regular sausage. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the finished dish. For an extra kick, try using a chili-infused olive oil.
