Pantry Pasta

Easy

Cooking from the pantry is a passion of mine, as you know.  I love looking at the pantry and thinking, what can I pull together that would be delicious?

Today, I’m sharing one of my all-time go-to recipes when I’m starving during the week and want something comforting and delicious without running to the grocery store or ordering takeout.  As a matter of fact, this can be done quicker than either of those! 

Too Tired to Think

We all have those nights, right? You’ve had a crazy day, and now it is dinner, and you are tempted to call for pizza because cooking feels too daunting.  You peek into the fridge to see if there are leftovers…and nothing. Your heart sinks.

Once you master this recipe, you can make your own version, literally without thinking in 15 minutes from your pantry!

Pantry Pasta

Think about it: a can of diced tomatoes, the ever-reliable onion and garlic, a pinch of fiery red pepper flakes for a little kick, a drizzle of golden olive oil, and that concentrated burst of flavor from a tube or jar of tomato paste. These are the workhorses of countless delicious meals, and today they're forming the foundation of our simple yet scrumptious pasta.

But here’s where I take a little detour from the traditional. Instead of the usual grated Parmesan, I like to add a bright and tangy finish with crumbled feta cheese. The salty, slightly crumbly texture of the feta adds a wonderful contrast to the rich tomato sauce and the smooth pasta. Trust me on this – it’s a game-changer!

And for the real magic? A swirl of vibrant pesto stirred in right at the end, after the pasta is cooked. This adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor that elevates the entire dish. The fragrant basil, pine nuts, garlic, and cheese in the pesto create a beautiful counterpoint to the warm, savory tomato base. It’s a simple step that brings a whole new dimension to your pantry pasta.

Make it Your Own

The beauty of a dish like this lies in its adaptability. Once you’ve mastered the basic tomato sauce, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to spark your culinary creativity:

• Spice it Up: If you love heat, don’t be shy with the red pepper flakes! You could also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth.

• Veggie Boost: Got a lonely zucchini or bell pepper in the crisper drawer? Dice it up and sauté it with the onions and garlic. Canned or frozen spinach stirred in at the end would also be delicious and add a nutritional punch.

• Protein Power: If you have a can of chickpeas or lentils in your pantry, rinse and add them to the sauce for a heartier, plant-based meal. Cooked chicken or sausage (if you happen to have some leftovers!) would also be fantastic additions.

• Herb Heaven: While the pesto adds a lovely herbal note, feel free to stir in some fresh or dried oregano, basil, or thyme while the sauce simmers.

• Creamy Dreamy: For a richer sauce, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the very end.

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This simple pantry pasta is a testament to the fact that you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s incredibly versatile. 

So, the next time you’re staring into your pantry wondering what to make, remember this simple pantry pasta with its fresh pesto twist and salty feta. It’s a guaranteed winner for a delicious and fuss-free dinner for two (or easily scaled up for a small gathering!).

Happy cooking, friends! Stay tuned for more pantry-inspired adventures!