# Simple 30-Minute Pasta Dishes for Busy Evenings
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a delicious bowl of pasta after a long day, but who has the time to spend hours in the kitchen? The good news is, you can whip up flavorful and satisfying pasta dishes in just 30 minutes or less! Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to quick, easy meals that will become your weeknight go-to. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your family or roommates with these simple yet delicious pasta creations.
For pasta enthusiasts and busy bees alike, these recipes offer a delightful culinary experience without the fuss. Imagine coming home, throwing together a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples, and having a comforting plate of pasta ready in no time. From classic favorites with a twist to creative flavor combinations, these dishes will keep your evenings exciting.
## Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta
This creamy tomato pasta dish is a perfect blend of tangy and rich flavors. With the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the aromatic basil, it’s a taste sensation. All you need is a pot of boiling water, a pan, and a few simple steps.
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz (350g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 14 oz (400g) can crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Add the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
5. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
6. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top and an extra basil leaf for garnish.
## Lemony Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A bright and zesty pasta dish with a garlicky kick, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast. Quick-cooking shrimp and a burst of lemon flavor make this a light yet satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb (500g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz (350g) pasta (linguine or spaghetti work well)
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
– Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping it warm.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the lemon juice, butter, and cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cooked pasta, tossing to combine. Sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
## One-Pan Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta
This crowd-pleasing pasta dish is perfect for busy families and pepperoni pizza lovers! It’s a simple one-pan wonder that cooks the pasta right in the sauce, making cleanup a breeze.
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz (350g) pasta (macaroni or small shell pasta)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
– 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the pasta, chicken broth, water, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
2. Simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, bell pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Cover the pan and let it stand for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to blend.
4. Serve immediately, and enjoy the cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness!
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These 30-minute pasta dishes are not only quick but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, meats, or spices to customize them to your liking. Happy cooking and buon appetito!