By Jiya Bhatt
By Jiya Bhatt
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– Pasta (grab whatever’s in your pantry) – Olive oil (2 tbsp — don’t skip) – Garlic (3 cloves, smash it) – Cherry tomatoes or canned – Salt, pepper, chili flakes – Cheese? Optional. Crave it.
By Jiya Bhatt
STEP #1
By Jiya Bhatt
Salt the water first! Use at least 1 tbsp of salt per liter of water. Boil pasta till al dente (Not mushy) Save ½ cup of that starchy pasta water before draining. You’ll need it later to pull it all together like a rom-com ending.
STEP #2
In a pan, warm up 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in 3-4 cloves of smashed or finely chopped garlic. Stir until golden — not brown. Burnt garlic is a tragedy. Want depth? Add a pinch of chili flakes here for that subtle heat.
By Jiya Bhatt
STEP #2
There's no worry if you despise tomatoes! Instead of tomatoes, melt in a knob of butter. Add a splash of cream or milk + a handful of grated cheese (Parmesan or whatever you like). Stir until creamy.
STEP #3
STEP #3
By Jiya Bhatt
Start with salt and black pepper! Don’t just sprinkle, season with confidence. A pinch of chili flakes adds a gentle heat, and if you’re feeling bold, a little garlic powder deepens the flavor without overpowering it. Don’t rush this part, this is how good pasta stops being “just okay”
STEP #4
By Jiya Bhatt
STEP #2
Toss the drained pasta straight into that rich, garlicky, buttery sauce you just built. Now, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. If it feels too thick, add another splash of water. Too thin? A bit more cheese or butter brings it back. (Your pasta is ready!)
STEP #3
STEP #5
By Jiya Bhatt