In the cozy kitchen of my Monterey cottage, some of my most cherished moments are spent with my daughters, Olivia and Isabella, as we whip up family meals inspired by generations of culinary wisdom. Today, I’m excited to share a “5 min pasta recipe easy” enough to fit into even the busiest of schedules, yet rich with flavors and memories. This dish is a nod to my grandmother, Nonna Rosa, whose kitchen was always bustling with the aroma of fresh herbs and homemade sauces. It’s a recipe that combines simplicity and tradition, capturing the essence of my childhood in every bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This 5 Min Pasta Recipe Easy
This “5 min pasta recipe easy” is a lifesaver for those hectic evenings when time is short, but your desire for a comforting meal remains strong. Growing up, my mother, Elena, often amazed us with her ability to create delicious meals seemingly out of thin air, especially when time was of the essence. This recipe carries on her legacy by delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary novice, this dish promises to bring a touch of gourmet to your everyday dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This 5 Min Pasta Recipe Easy

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this quick and delightful recipe to life. Feel free to make substitutions where needed, as my mother always believed in improvising with what you have on hand.
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pasta water reserved
Nutrition Facts
Below are the nutrition facts for a serving of this quick pasta recipe. It’s both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for those mindful of their diet.
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
Speedy & Scrumptious: The Ultimate 5-Minute Easy Pasta Recipe
Learn how to make delicious 5 min pasta recipe easy. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this quick and delightful recipe to life. Feel free to make substitutions where needed, as my mother always believed in improvising with what you have on hand.
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pasta water reserved
Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of crafting this delightful dish. As you follow these steps, I hope you feel the warmth and love from my family to yours.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Turn off the heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil, tossing until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your 5 Min Pasta Recipe Easy
Let’s dive into the process of crafting this delightful dish. As you follow these steps, I hope you feel the warmth and love from my family to yours. Learn more: The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Delicious Homemade Pasta Recipes
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Turn off the heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil, tossing until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and basil if desired.
Tips for Making the Best 5 Min Pasta Recipe Easy
Here are some tips to ensure your pasta is as delightful as my childhood memories of family dinners:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan. These simple ingredients elevate the dish tremendously.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente is key to maintaining the perfect texture.
- Adjust the Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, perhaps one that includes some of Nonna Rosa’s favorite ingredients like arugula and cherry tomatoes. A slice of crusty bread, warm from the oven, also makes a wonderful accompaniment. And, of course, a glass of chilled white wine completes the meal, just as it did in our family gatherings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Should you find yourself with leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or olive oil and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for 5 min pasta recipe easy?
The main ingredients for 5 min pasta recipe easy include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make 5 min pasta recipe easy?
The total time to make 5 min pasta recipe easy includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make 5 min pasta recipe easy ahead of time?
Yes, 5 min pasta recipe easy can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with 5 min pasta recipe easy?
5 min pasta recipe easy pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is 5 min pasta recipe easy suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, 5 min pasta recipe easy may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
As you savor this “5 min pasta recipe easy,” I hope it brings a sense of joy and comfort to your table, much like it does mine. Cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s a way to connect with loved ones and share stories from our past. From my family to yours, may this dish become a beloved tradition in your home, just as it has in mine.

