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Easy tomato garlic pasta with parmesan and fresh herbs

Easy Tomato Garlic Pasta

A quick and budget-friendly tomato garlic pasta made with simple pantry ingredients, canned tomatoes, fresh garlic, olive oil, pasta, and herbs. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or quick lunches.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta such as spaghetti, penne, linguine, or rigatoni
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced, optional
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes 14 to 15 ounces
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water as needed
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley optional

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 large skillet or saucepan
  • 1 colander
  • 1 wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente.
  2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Add the onion if using and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes.
  7. Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  8. Simmer the sauce for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
  10. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  12. Serve warm with parmesan, basil, parsley, or extra black pepper if desired.

Notes

Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce or diced tomatoes for more texture. Save pasta water before draining because it helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling to the pasta. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, spinach, or white beans to make the meal more filling.