Delicious Quick Pasta: A Rich Meal in 30 Minutes

This recipe is designed to offer a truly satisfying and flavourful meal with the reliability and enjoyment akin to a new release from your favourite magazine. With just 10 minutes of active preparation and roughly 18 minutes of cooking, this Delicious Quick Pasta integrates seamlessly into your evening routine, ensuring a rich and comforting dish from hob to table in just 30 minutes. It’s the ideal solution for those who seek great taste and simplicity without compromising on time, helping you maintain a balanced and enjoyable lifestyle with minimal fuss.

Quick Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 7 oz (200g) short pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli) or spaghetti
• 14 fl oz (400g) bottle of good quality passata (sieved tomatoes)
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• A small bunch of fresh basil, leaves torn
• 1.7 fl oz (50ml) fresh double cream (or mascarpone)
• 1.4 oz (40g) grated Parmigiano Reggiano, plus extra for serving
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Bring a large pan of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to packet instructions until al dente.
2. While the water is boiling and the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
3. Pour the passata into the frying pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened.
4. When the pasta is nearly ready, stir the fresh double cream (or mascarpone) into the tomato sauce and mix well. Fold in most of the torn fresh basil leaves.
5. Drain the pasta, reserving a ladleful of the cooking water. Transfer the drained pasta directly into the frying pan with the sauce.
6. Add the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and toss vigorously to combine everything thoroughly. If the sauce appears too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve a beautifully creamy consistency.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmigiano Reggiano and a few fresh basil leaves.

Serving & Leftovers

Serve this Delicious Quick Pasta hot, freshly prepared, to fully appreciate its creaminess and fresh flavour. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. We recommend reheating gently with a splash of water or stock to maintain the correct consistency.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portions.

One Last Thing

This recipe shows how a simple dish can become a cherished go-to, a source of consistent pleasure, much like a good book. Its ease and satisfying nature make evenings calmer and more delicious. Never underestimate the power of a reliable recipe to bring serenity to your week.