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Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ever wonder if you can eat gourmet on a broke budget? Same. Here’s my hack to elevate your everyday meals without draining your wallet. Whether you’re a busy mom trying to squeeze in a homemade dinner between soccer practice and bedtime, or a college student looking to impress your date without setting off the apartment fire alarm, this recipe is for you. No oven needed!
Why You’ll Love It
- No oven needed!
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Zero fancy kitchen gear needed
- Leftovers are even better the next day
- Easy to meal prep or double for later
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles in the aromatic garlic and oil mixture.
- Stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using, sprinkle in the toasted pine nuts. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Keeping It Real
- Juggling homemade meals with a busy schedule feels like a superpower, and with recipes like this, you can have it all—delicious meals and some extra cash.
- This pasta is a hit for quick weeknight dinners and pairs perfectly with some side gigs to fund your next grocery run.
- Turn cooking time into learning time by diving into a fun podcast or a new audiobook while stirring this yummy dish.
