Discover how to make delicious rotini pasta with simple ingredients. Perfect for quick dinners, this versatile recipe brings flavor and comfort to your table.
Why You’ll Love It
Rotini pasta is one of those versatile, crowd-pleasing dishes that fits every occasion. Its spiral shape holds sauces beautifully, giving you bursts of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dinner, this rotini pasta recipe is simple, flavorful, and quick to make. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies, proteins, or cheeses.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta – the star of the dish, perfect for holding sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil – adds richness and depth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory base
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – provides sweetness and acidity
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds creaminess and umami
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped – for fresh herbal brightness
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – for a subtle kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they soften and start releasing their juices, about 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Toss the cooked rotini into the skillet with the tomato and garlic mixture. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped basil. Mix everything well so the pasta is evenly coated.
- Heat the combined ingredients for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if you like.
For more simple pasta dinners, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection.
Expert Tips
To get perfectly cooked rotini pasta every time, taste a piece a minute or two before the package’s suggested time. It should be tender but still have a slight bite. If you plan to reheat leftovers, acid from tomatoes can sometimes make the pasta firm, so slightly undercook it initially.
If fresh basil isn’t available, try substituting with dried basil or fresh parsley. For extra depth, a splash of balsamic vinegar added in step three can brighten the tomatoes.
Storage
Store any leftover rotini pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.
Variations
- Vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese and drizzle extra olive oil.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free rotini pasta and ensure all added ingredients are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
FAQ
- What is rotini pasta?
- Rotini pasta is a corkscrew-shaped pasta that holds sauces well, making it perfect for a variety of dishes.
- How long should I cook rotini pasta?
- Cook rotini pasta according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Can I use rotini pasta in cold salads?
- Yes, rotini’s shape holds dressing well, making it ideal for pasta salads.
- Is this rotini pasta recipe suitable for vegans?
- It can be easily made vegan by using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute instead of Parmesan.
- How can I avoid soggy rotini pasta?
- Be sure to cook to al dente and avoid overcooking. Drain pasta well and toss promptly with sauce to prevent sogginess.
Call to Action
Have you tried this rotini pasta recipe? Let us know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate and save it for your next quick dinner. Share it with friends who love easy pasta meals. For more delicious recipes, explore our Pasta Recipes page and visit Food Network for additional inspiration.
