Easy Weeknight Pasta Recipe

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious yet easy meal can be challenging. However, with this quick pasta recipe, you can have a hearty and satisfying dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes! This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don't want to spend too much time cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cooking Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups of your favorite pasta sauce (or you can mix in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula, chopped finely
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat up olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until the aroma is released without browning the garlic too much.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes or canned sauce, add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Once done cooking, add the drained pasta into the skillet along with spinach/arugula. Toss everything gently until all ingredients are well combined.
6. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

This easy weeknight pasta recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. You could add some protein like cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling. For those looking to reduce calorie intake, you might consider using whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta.

Why This Recipe?

The simplicity and versatility of this dish make it an excellent choice for busy professionals who don't have much time to spend on elaborate meals yet still crave something tasty. It's also suitable as a family dinner where everyone can enjoy their own customized portions while dining together.

Health Benefits:

• Pasta: A great source of complex carbohydrates providing sustained energy throughout the day.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, which helps protect against heart disease and certain cancers.
• Garlic: Known for its antibacterial properties and immune-boosting effects.
• Spinach/Arugula: Packed with vitamins A, C, E, K, folic acid, manganese, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc, copper, beta carotene, fiber, potassium, calcium, protein, and various antioxidants.

Tips For Success:

1. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to retain its firmness and texture; this way, it absorbs more flavors from other ingredients.
2. If you're adding meat or fish, cook them separately first before incorporating into the sauce to ensure they are fully cooked.
3. The heat level of your skillet should be moderate so as not to burn the garlic but still get a golden brown color which enhances its flavor significantly.

Remember that cooking doesn't have to be time-consuming or complicated. Sometimes, simplicity is key! This pasta dish demonstrates just how simple yet delicious a meal can be when prepared correctly. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy or want to experiment with various ingredients based on what's available in your pantry, this recipe offers flexibility without compromising taste.

So next time you’re short on time but craving something comforting and satisfying, try out our Easy Weeknight Pasta Recipe. Not only will it save you precious minutes during dinner preparation, but it'll also provide a delicious treat for your taste buds! Happy cooking!