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Quick 10-Minute Lazy Girl Pasta Recipe with Burst Tomatoes and Parmesan Perfect for Busy Weeknights

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A simple, flavorful pasta dish that comes together in just 10 minutes, featuring burst cherry tomatoes and freshly grated parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 cups (300 g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • A handful of fresh basil, roughly torn (optional)
  • Lemon zest from half a lemon

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Taste a strand a minute before the suggested time to ensure firmness.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst, about 4-5 minutes. If the mixture looks too dry, splash in a tablespoon of pasta water to loosen it up.
  4. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the pasta cooking water. Add the pasta directly into the skillet with the burst tomatoes.
  5. Toss the pasta and tomato mixture together over low heat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
  6. Turn off the heat and stir in fresh basil leaves and lemon zest. Then sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) of freshly grated parmesan over the top, tossing gently to combine.
  7. Serve immediately. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally add an extra pinch of parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce. Use fresh garlic and freshly grated parmesan for best flavor. Let tomatoes burst naturally without mashing. Add fresh basil and lemon zest at the end to preserve brightness. Can substitute gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese alternatives for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick pasta, lazy girl pasta, burst tomatoes, parmesan pasta, easy weeknight dinner, 10-minute recipe, simple pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/quick-10-minute-lazy-girl-pasta-recipe-with-burst-tomatoes-and-parmesan-perfect-for-busy-weeknights/