In the heart of every Italian kitchen lies one golden rule: simplicity leads to the best flavor. And that’s exactly what this 5-ingredient quick pasta recipe is all about — a flavorful, fuss-free dish that honors the magic of minimalism.
This recipe came to life from necessity, inspired by my grandmother’s last-minute dinner wizardry. I remember watching her transform a handful of pantry staples into a meal that felt like a warm hug. It was always about having a few good ingredients on hand, and knowing how to bring out their best. With just pasta, garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and basil, she could work magic. And today, I’m passing that magic on to you.
Looking for the full recipe with tips and seasonal twists? You can find the step-by-step breakdown here: 5-Ingredient Quick Pasta. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, this is your new go-to for fast and fabulous dinners.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight lifesaver, a quick lunch between Zoom meetings, or a versatile dish that works for any season, this 5-ingredient quick pasta delivers. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it tastes like Italy in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This 5-Ingredient Quick Pasta Recipe
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: This pasta uses just five ingredients but creates a beautifully balanced dish with richness, brightness, and depth.
- Cooks in 30 Minutes or Less: Perfect for weeknights when time is tight but cravings are strong.
- Family-Friendly and Foolproof: Even beginners will feel like pros making this classic.
- Adaptable All Year Round: Use fresh cherry tomatoes in the summer or canned San Marzano in the winter.
- Budget-Friendly: Five simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Whether you’re a college student, a parent feeding a family, or someone who simply loves pasta (don’t we all?), this 5-ingredient quick pasta belongs in your weekly rotation.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Let’s break down the stars of this dish:
- 400g (14 oz) dried pasta – spaghetti, penne, linguine, or your favorite shape.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – for richness and flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – the aromatic foundation.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes – or a 14 oz can of whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes for the winter.
- A handful of fresh basil leaves – or 1 teaspoon dried basil if fresh isn’t available.
Optional additions (not part of the base 5 ingredients, but nice to have):
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, generously salt it, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it until it’s just al dente. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water — you might need it to help bring the sauce together.
Step 2: Make the Garlic-Infused Olive Oil
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your thinly sliced garlic and gently sauté until golden and fragrant. This step is key for flavor — don’t rush or let the garlic burn!
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Add cherry tomatoes or drained canned tomatoes to the skillet. Let them simmer and soften for about 8–10 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to gently crush the tomatoes and release their juices, creating a chunky, rustic sauce.
Step 4: Toss and Combine
Drain the pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed. This helps the sauce cling to every strand of pasta.
Step 5: Finish with Basil
Tear the basil leaves over the pasta and toss again. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly grated cheese if desired.
Boom — dinner is served. A gorgeous 5-ingredient quick pasta that feels like it took hours, but only took minutes.
Ingredient Tips
- Pasta Shape: Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine cling well to the sauce, but short shapes like penne or fusilli also work beautifully.
- Tomatoes: Use fresh cherry tomatoes at their peak in summer. In colder months, go for quality canned San Marzano tomatoes — sweet, low-acid, and rich.
- Olive Oil: Invest in a good extra virgin olive oil. It’s one of the core flavors in this dish.
- Basil: Fresh is best, but dried works in a pinch — just add it early to allow the flavor to infuse.
5-Ingredient Quick Pasta for All Seasons
This is not just a summer dish. Here’s how to make it work anytime:
Summer Version
- Fresh cherry or heirloom tomatoes
- Add lemon zest for brightness
- Top with torn burrata or mozzarella for a creamy twist
Winter Version
- Use canned tomatoes and simmer longer for depth
- Add a knob of butter for richness
- Stir in a handful of spinach or kale for nutrients
The beauty of this 5-ingredient quick pasta is its versatility. With just one or two small changes, it transforms to match the mood of the season.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat and toss with fresh pasta.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating on the stove to restore moisture.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
Light, energizing, and perfect for a midweek pick-me-up!
Creative Additions (Without Losing Simplicity)
Want to jazz up your 5-ingredient quick pasta without complicating it?
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or canned tuna.
- Veggies: Stir in roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Umami: A few chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes go a long way.
Pairings & Add-Ons
- Serve With: A simple arugula salad or roasted veggies.
- Wine Pairing: Crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Chianti.
- Upgrade It: Toss in olives, capers, or sundried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Reader Engagement Prompt
What’s your favorite way to make pasta with just a few ingredients? Leave a comment or share your take on this 5-ingredient quick pasta on Instagram and tag me — I’d love to see your spin!