10-Minute Comfort Food: My Grandmother’s Favorite Quick Dinner
⏱️ Quick Comfort Pasta (Ready in 10 Minutes!)
This lightning-fast pasta recipe is a go-to for busy evenings when you need something cozy, satisfying, and simple. With pantry staples and frozen veggies, you’ll have a warm, flavorful meal on the table in just 10 minutes—no stress required.
🍝 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pasta (any short type: penne, fusilli, etc.) | 8 oz |
| Canned diced tomatoes (with juice) | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 2 cloves |
| Frozen peas or mixed vegetables | 1 cup |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
🧀 Optional Add-Ons
- Fresh basil (torn or chopped)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of water, adding salt once it’s rolling. Add your pasta and cook according to the time listed on the package until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, warm olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until aromatic—don’t let it brown!
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour the can of diced tomatoes (liquid included) into the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the frozen veggies. Cover and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the vegetables are warmed and just tender.
Step 4: Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat all the pasta in the tomato-veggie sauce. Season well with salt and pepper, and if you want heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Spoon the pasta into serving bowls. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan, fresh basil, or both.
💡 Pro Tips
- Fresh Is Great, Too: If you have fresh cherry tomatoes on hand, toss them in instead of canned for a burst of flavor and color.
- Al Dente Is Best: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when mixed with sauce and reheated.
- Boost with Protein: Add leftover grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish—just stir them in when you add the pasta.
- Make It Ahead: Double the batch and refrigerate extras for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.
With minimal prep and big flavor, this comforting pasta will become a favorite you turn to again and again—especially when time is tight and comfort is calling. 🍽️
