
Tips for Perfect Quick Pasta
-
Salt your pasta water generously — it seasons the pasta from the inside.
-
Reserve pasta water to help loosen and emulsify the sauce.
-
Use fresh garlic — it makes a big flavour difference.
-
Don’t overcook pasta; al dente gives the best texture.
-
Simmer the tomato sauce to thicken and develop flavour.
-
Stir cream in after tomatoes simmer to prevent curdling.
-
Add Parmesan at the end for creamy richness.
-
Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal note — don’t skip it!
-
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
-
Use high-quality canned tomatoes for better flavour depth.
Serve It With Suggestions
-
Garlic bread or focaccia
-
Crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
-
Roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell pepper, or eggplant)
-
A side of steamed broccoli or green beans
-
A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
-
Grated extra Parmesan and black pepper
-
Chilli flakes or chilli oil drizzle
-
Fresh arugula tossed on top
-
Toasted pine nuts for texture
-
A poached egg for a creamy twist
FAQ's
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes — whole milk works, though the sauce will be a bit lighter.
Q: Can this be made vegan?
A: Absolutely — use plant cream and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
Q: What kind of pasta works best?
A: Any short pasta like penne or fusilli, or even spaghetti, works well.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I add meat?
A: Yes — cooked chicken, ground beef, or shrimp are great add-ins.
Q: What’s the best cheese substitute if I don’t have Parmesan?
A: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives.
Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A: Simmer it longer or stir in a bit more cheese or a touch of pasta water.
Q: Can I freeze this quick pasta?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it — reheat gently with added cream or broth.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes — it's mild, creamy, and simple. Leave out the chilli for little ones.