Easy Pasta Recipes You Can Cook Tonight

Got a craving for pasta but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? You’re in the right place. Whether you love the buttery taste of classic carbonara or want to spice things up with a Delhi‑style tomato masala, these recipes are quick, cheap, and packed with flavor.

Basic Tips to Nail Perfect Pasta Every Time

First thing’s first: use plenty of salted water. A good rule is 1 litre of water for every 100 g of pasta and a tablespoon of salt. It seasons the noodles from the inside out. Bring the water to a rolling boil, add the pasta, and stir once to keep it from sticking. Check the package for cooking time, but start tasting a minute early – you want it al dente, firm but not hard.

When the pasta is done, reserve a cup of the cooking water before you drain. That starchy liquid is gold for thickening sauces and helping them cling to the noodles. Toss the drained pasta straight into the pan with your sauce, add a splash of the water, and mix on medium heat for a smooth, silky finish.

Three Simple Recipes to Try Right Now

1. Classic Tomato Basil Pasta – Heat olive oil in a pan, add chopped garlic and a can of crushed tomatoes. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stir in fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Toss with cooked spaghetti, add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat, and finish with grated parmesan.

2. Creamy Spinach & Peas Penne – In the same pot, melt a knob of butter, stir in a cup of frozen peas and a handful of fresh spinach. Pour in a splash of cream (or a dairy‑free alternative), let it bubble gently, then mix in the drained penne. Season with nutmeg and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

3. Delhi‑Style Tomato Masala Pasta – Sauté onions, ginger, and garlic in oil until golden. Add a teaspoon each of cumin, coriander, and garam masala, then stir in a can of diced tomatoes and a pinch of chili powder. Simmer until thick, toss in cooked fusilli, and finish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of yogurt.

All three dishes take under 30 minutes from start to plate, and they use pantry staples you probably already have.

If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried versions work fine – just add them a minute earlier so they release their flavor. And don’t be shy about swapping ingredients: use whole‑wheat pasta for extra fiber, or try gluten‑free rice noodles if you need a different texture.

That’s it – a handful of easy ideas to keep your pasta nights exciting. Grab a pot, boil some water, and enjoy a restaurant‑ready meal without leaving the house.