why make this recipe
Midnight Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that comes together in no time. It’s perfect for those late-night cravings or when you want something warm and comforting without too much effort. This recipe features simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, making it an easy go-to dish. Plus, the combination of garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil gives it a delightful flavor that will impress anyone who tries it.
how to make Midnight Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix well.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
how to serve Midnight Pasta
Serve Midnight Pasta warm on a plate or in a shallow bowl. You can add extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for a richer taste. A side of garlic bread or a simple salad would pair nicely with the dish as well.
how to store Midnight Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the Midnight Pasta cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil or in the microwave until warmed through.
tips to make Midnight Pasta
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti; al dente gives the perfect bite.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on how spicy you want the dish to be.
- Fresh basil adds a lot of flavor, so try to use it if you can. If you don’t have any, dried basil works in a pinch.
variation
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or zucchini to make this dish heartier. You could also swap the spaghetti for a different pasta shape if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I make Midnight Pasta in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
You can use canned tomatoes or any other type of fresh tomato cut into pieces. Just cook them a bit longer to get the right texture.
Midnight Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and delicious pasta dish perfect for late-night cravings, featuring garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix well.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente and feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian