Midnight Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Midnight Pasta is a quick and delightful dish that shines when you’re looking for something easy yet satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that’s perfect for any late-night craving. It combines the freshness of garlic and basil with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, making it not only tasty but also colorful. Plus, it’s ready in no time, which means you can enjoy your late-night dinner without a long wait.

How to Make Midnight Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they’re soft, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Toss in the cooked pasta, chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Midnight Pasta

Midnight Pasta is best served hot straight from the skillet. You can plate it up in shallow bowls and sprinkle generous amounts of grated Parmesan cheese on top. A few extra fresh basil leaves can also add a nice touch for presentation. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Midnight Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store Midnight Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil to bring back some moisture.

Tips to Make Midnight Pasta

• Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• If you don’t have fresh cherry tomatoes, you can use canned or sun-dried tomatoes as a substitute.
• Adding some protein, like grilled chicken or shrimp, can make the dish even heartier.

Variation

You can easily customize Midnight Pasta by adding other vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be great additions. Additionally, for a creamier version, you could stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free options.

2. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil can be used in a pinch. Use about one teaspoon of dried basil for each tablespoon of fresh basil called for in the recipe.

3. Is Midnight Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just follow the storage tips above, and you can easily make it ahead and reheat for quick meals throughout the week.

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