Total Time: 15 minutes
Introduction
Even on the busiest of days, you can produce a flavorful and satisfying meal with this recipe for my Cheap & Lazy Meal Tonight. It’s far from run of the mill, instead boasting a delightful combination of spaghetti, garlic, red pepper flakes, and cherry tomatoes. This meal isn’t just about convenience; it’s a nutritious dinner that provides comfort and takes minimal effort.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect when you need an uncomplicated meal on the table fast, but don’t want to compromise on taste. With an unexpectedly robust flavor combination considering its simplicity, this meal ticks all the boxes for convenience, affordability, and taste.
How to Make My Cheap & Lazy Meal Tonight
Ingredients:
– 200g spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Directions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until they become fragrant (approx. 1-2 minutes).
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, ensuring the ingredients are mixed together well. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
How to Serve My Cheap & Lazy Meal Tonight
As the meal is best served hot, be prepared to eat immediately after cooking. Enhance its presentation by adding a sprinkling of Parmesan and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
How to Store My Cheap & Lazy Meal Tonight
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, either microwave for 2 minutes or reheat on the stove until hot all the way through.
Tips to Make My Cheap & Lazy Meal Tonight
Using fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and basil are key to enriching the flavor of this simple dish. Also, consider adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your personal spice preference.
Variations (if any)
For a sensory twist, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a few olives to the final mix. If vegetarian, try adding mushrooms instead of the parmesan for a hearty alternative.
FAQs
1. Q: Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can replace spaghetti with any other types of pasta such as fusilli or penne.
2. Q: Could I add other spices to this recipe?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with other spices like oregano or rosemary depending on your personal preference.
3. Q: What can be used instead of cherry tomatoes?
A: Regular tomatoes can be substituted for cherry tomatoes if not available. Dice them small to mirror the cherry tomato size and adjust the cooking time as needed.