Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients
Highlighted under: Fast Feast
I absolutely love creating simple dishes that don't require a lengthy ingredient list. Having fewer ingredients doesn't mean compromising on flavor; in fact, it often enhances the overall dish by allowing each component to shine. Whether I'm short on time or just want something quick and delicious, these easy recipes have become my go-to solutions in the kitchen. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, cooking feels more accessible and enjoyable for anyone, regardless of their skill level!
When I first started cooking, I often felt overwhelmed by recipes filled with a hundred ingredients. That's when I discovered the charm of easy recipes with fewer components. I remember making a simple pasta dish with just garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of cheese. The flavor was incredible, proving that simplicity can lead to delicious meals.
Over the years, I’ve perfected my approach to cooking with minimal ingredients. By focusing on fresh and high-quality items, like ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs, I’ve learned that even the simplest meals can be vibrant and satisfying. The key is quality over quantity!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly quick and easy to make
- Perfectly balanced flavors with minimal fuss
- Great for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
Mastering Technique
The key to achieving the perfect texture for your pasta dish lies in cooking the pasta to al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite but not hard. When you drain the pasta, be careful not to rinse it, as that will wash away the starch that helps the sauce adhere and enhance the overall flavor. If you’re unsure, taste a piece a minute or two before the package time is up. It should have just a slight resistance when biting into it.
Sautéing the garlic correctly is vital for flavor development. Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning, which can turn garlic bitter. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic turns a light golden color and releases a sweet aroma, which typically takes about two minutes. If you notice it turning brown too quickly, reduce the heat immediately. This ensures a pleasant, aromatic base that elevates the dish.
Ingredient Insights
Olive oil plays an essential role in this recipe, acting as both a cooking medium and a flavor enhancer. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for a bolder taste, but you can also use regular olive oil if that’s what you have on hand. In a pinch, you could substitute with another oil like avocado or grapeseed oil, but these would impart different flavors. Whichever you choose, aim for high-quality oil to truly bring out the essence of the dish.
Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. If you don’t have fresh basil available, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount to about one-third, since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. You'll want to add dried herbs earlier during cooking to allow their flavors to meld, whereas fresh herbs should be added just before serving for the best impact.
Ingredients
Simple Pasta Dish
- 200g pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil, for garnish
These ingredients create a delicious dish in no time!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly golden, about 2 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish.
Enjoy your flavorful meal made with minimal ingredients!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the dish without complicating it.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish shines on its own, but you can elevate it by adding protein for a more filling meal. Grilled chicken or shrimp work beautifully, simply sauté them alongside the garlic for added depth. Alternatively, for a vegetarian touch, toss in some sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This adds not only flavor but also color and nutrition to your plate.
For a complete meal, consider serving this simple pasta with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. The salad can be dressed in lemon and olive oil, providing a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread offers a lovely crunch and complementary flavor.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the dish to help it regain some moisture and prevent drying out. Heat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adjusting the liquid as needed for desired consistency.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta, but it’s best to keep it separate from the sauce. Store in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to a month. To use, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat—just remember to add a little reserved pasta water when warming up!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the pasta?
Yes! You can use any type of pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
→ What other ingredients can I add?
You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance the dish. Fresh herbs also work wonderfully!
Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients
I absolutely love creating simple dishes that don't require a lengthy ingredient list. Having fewer ingredients doesn't mean compromising on flavor; in fact, it often enhances the overall dish by allowing each component to shine. Whether I'm short on time or just want something quick and delicious, these easy recipes have become my go-to solutions in the kitchen. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, cooking feels more accessible and enjoyable for anyone, regardless of their skill level!
Created by: Elara Whitfield
Recipe Type: Fast Feast
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Simple Pasta Dish
- 200g pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly golden, about 2 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the dish without complicating it.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g