Ina Garten’s Midnight Pasta is one of those delightful dishes that transforms a simple evening into something special. It’s perfect for those late-night cravings when you want something delicious yet quick to whip up. This pasta, bursting with fresh flavors from cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic, comes together in just minutes. The whole process is just as satisfying as the dish itself, bringing a burst of warmth and comfort to your kitchen.
What makes Midnight Pasta truly unique is its balance of textures and flavors. The al dente spaghetti or linguine embraces the juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant garlic, while fresh basil adds a hint of herbaceous brightness. It’s the perfect meal for dinner parties, intimate gatherings, or even a cozy night in by yourself with a good book or movie.
Why you’ll love this midnight pasta
- Quick and easy to prepare in about 30 minutes.
- Bursting with fresh flavors that awaken your taste buds.
- Versatile – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
- Uses simple ingredients that you may already have on hand.
- Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
“This midnight pasta is a revelation at any hour of the day!”
Step-by-step overview
Making Midnight Pasta is a straightforward process. Start by cooking your pasta until al dente, then prepare a quick sauce by sautéing garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add cherry tomatoes to create a delicious sauce and toss it all together with the pasta and fresh basil. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elevated finish.
What ingredients do I need for midnight pasta?
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Pasta: You can use any long pasta, like fettuccine or spaghetti, based on what you have.
- Tomatoes: Substitute cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or any small variety.
- Herbs: Fresh oregano or parsley can be used in place of basil if preferred.
- Allergens: Be cautious with Parmesan cheese if lactose intolerant.
How do I make midnight pasta step-by-step?
To make this midnight pasta, we’ll follow a few simple steps that yield a flavorful and quick meal.
- Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 2 minutes until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture, adding chopped basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Pro Tip: To ensure the garlic doesn’t burn, keep the heat at medium and stir frequently until fragrant.
Visual doneness cues: You’ll know the garlic is ready when you can smell it, while the tomatoes should look slightly blistered and juicy.
Helpful cooking tips
- Salt the pasta water: A well-salted pasta water adds flavor to the noodles.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the sauce.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and basil can make a notable difference in flavor.
- Adjust the heat: Keep an eye on the garlic to avoid burning; it should be golden and fragrant.
How should I serve it?
Midnight pasta is best served immediately, fresh from the skillet. Plate the pasta generously and top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a few additional basil leaves for a burst of color. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any lingering sauce on your plate.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
You can prepare and store components of midnight pasta ahead of time, like cooking the pasta and prepping the sauce individually. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How do I fix common issues?
- Pasta is too dry: Add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of pasta water to moisten it.
- Lacking flavor: Adjust with more salt, pepper, or additional herbs to enhance the taste.
- Overcooked pasta: In the future, reduce the cooking time and taste for doneness sooner.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to customize midnight pasta with different ingredients to suit your taste. Try adding spinach or arugula for some greens, or toss in olives for a briny flavor. For a non-vegetarian option, add grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein. Each addition will lend a unique twist to this comforting dish.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well here, adding additional fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Is there a vegan alternative?
Yes! Omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative to keep the dish plant-based.
How can I make it spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes or toss in fresh sliced jalapeños during the cooking process for extra heat.
Can I freeze leftover pasta?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked pasta in a freezer-safe container. Just keep in mind that the texture may change upon reheating.
Midnight Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture, adding chopped basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.