Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients

Name: Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pasta; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Express Kitchen

I love creating delicious meals that require minimal ingredients. It’s amazing how just a few simple components can come together to form something truly delightful. This collection focuses on those easy food recipes that are not only quick to prepare, but also deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re in a time crunch or just don’t want to go for grocery shopping, these recipes prove that you don’t need a long list of items to whip up something wonderful in your kitchen.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:52:08.090Z

When I first started cooking, I knew the importance of good meals without complicating things. I often found myself experimenting with just a handful of ingredients, turning everyday staples into something special. One of my favorite tips is to let the ingredients shine—choose quality over quantity, and you'll be amazed at how much flavor you can extract with so little.

I remember making a simple pasta dish with nothing but garlic, olive oil, and parsley. It was so refreshing that it taught me to appreciate simplicity in cooking. This experience inspired me to explore more easy food recipes, focusing on accessibility and taste.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and effortless preparation for busy days
Minimal ingredients, but maximum flavor
Great for beginners who want to boost their cooking skills

Understanding the Ingredients

The simplicity of this pasta recipe lies in its ingredients, each playing a vital role. The pasta serves as the base, providing a hearty texture that holds up well to the garlic-infused olive oil. For an even more flavorful experience, consider using whole wheat pasta, which adds a nutty taste and extra nutrition. The key is to cook the pasta al dente—this means it should have a slight bite to it when chewed, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Olive oil is not just a cooking medium; it’s the flavor powerhouse in this dish. Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil will elevate the overall taste. When heated, it should shimmer but not smoke; this indicates it's ready for sautéing your garlic. If you want to lighten the recipe, you could substitute the olive oil with a lighter oil like avocado oil, though it will alter the taste slightly.

Mastering the Technique

Sautéing garlic is an art form that can make or break your dish. You want to cook it until it becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes over medium heat. If you overcook it, garlic can turn bitter, ruining the dish's flavor. Be vigilant, and stir frequently to prevent it from sticking or burning. If you’re unsure, reduce the heat slightly to give yourself more time to watch the garlic closely.

Combining the cooked pasta with the garlic oil is where the magic happens. When you toss the pasta in the skillet, do so gently to ensure it gets evenly coated in the oil. This step is also a great opportunity to add a splash of pasta water to bring the sauce together—it helps to create a glossy finish and enhances the flavor. Use about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on how much moisture is needed.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for easy meals:

Basic Ingredients

2 cups pasta
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

These foundation ingredients can create various meals.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bring your dish to life:

Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the garlic oil and add the chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Enjoy your delicious meal made with just a few ingredients!

Pro Tips

Always taste as you go to adjust the seasoning and ensure the best flavor in your dish.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is incredibly versatile and can stand alone as a light meal or be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. To enhance the flavor, consider grating some Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. It adds a savory, salty element that complements the garlic beautifully. Additionally, a few red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant kick for those who enjoy heat.

For a refreshing twist, consider incorporating some seasonal vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach. Adding them to the mix can elevate the dish’s nutritional value and make it visually appealing. Just toss them in the skillet during the last couple of minutes of cooking to soften them slightly while retaining their color and flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing this dish in advance, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to revive the sauce. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can lead to dry pasta. I often add more fresh parsley right before serving to revitalize the flavors.

For longer storage, this pasta can be frozen, although I recommend undercooking it slightly (for about 1-2 minutes less than al dente) before freezing. This will help maintain its texture when reheating later. Pack it in freezer-safe bags with as much air removed as possible. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I customize the recipe with other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables, proteins, or herbs that you enjoy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and follow the same cooking process.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.