This is the Easiest, Fastest, and Cheapest Recipe You’ll Love!
Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that won’t break the bank? Look no further! This recipe is not only incredibly easy and quick to make but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time and ingredients. With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful pasta dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into the magic of this easy, fast, and affordable recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 liter of hot water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 300g pasta (of your choice)
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon margarine
- 2 tablespoons tomato extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley for garnish)
Instructions:
- Boil the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring the hot water to a boil.
- Add a teaspoon of salt and oil to the boiling water.
- Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same pot or a separate skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of margarine over medium heat.
- Add the tomato extract to the oil mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for a few minutes until fragrant and slightly thickened.
- Season the Sauce:
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using), adjusting the seasoning to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the pot or skillet, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle dried parsley over the pasta for added color and flavor.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the delicious and budget-friendly meal!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Protein Additions: For added protein, you can stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu into the pasta and sauce mixture.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the pasta before serving for a cheesy finish.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamy sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk into the tomato sauce mixture for richness and depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Choose your favorite shape for a personalized touch.
- What is tomato extract, and can I substitute it with tomato paste? Tomato extract is a concentrated form of tomato flavor, similar to tomato paste but with a thicker consistency. If you don’t have tomato extract, you can use tomato paste instead, but you may need to adjust the quantity to achieve the desired flavor.
- How can I make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb? To make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb, you can substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles. Additionally, use olive oil or butter instead of margarine, and skip the tomato extract to reduce the carb content.
- Can I make a larger batch of this recipe for meal prep? Absolutely! This recipe is easy to scale up for meal prep. Simply double or triple the ingredients as needed and store the cooked pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans? Yes, this recipe can be made vegetarian or vegan by using plant-based margarine and skipping the addition of meat or dairy products. You can also add extra vegetables or plant-based protein for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s a modified version of the recipe:
- Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Use olive oil or butter instead of margarine.
- Skip the tomato extract to reduce carb content.
- Season with keto-friendly herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, and garlic powder.
This easy, fast, and affordable pasta recipe is a lifesaver for busy days when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry. With its simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a go-to recipe that you can rely on time and time again. Plus, with the option to customize the ingredients and make variations to suit your taste preferences, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and discover the joy of a delicious and budget-friendly meal made with love and simplicity!
