Can’t believe I didn’t know this until now! This is a life saver!

### **Instructions:**

#### **Step 1: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil**
Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should just soften and release its aroma.

#### **Step 2: Add Tomatoes**
Next, add the tomatoes to the pan. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, you can halve or quarter them. If you’re using canned tomatoes, pour them straight in. Stir to combine with the garlic and let them cook down for 5 minutes. The tomatoes will break apart slightly, creating a simple yet flavorful sauce.

#### **Step 3: Add Pasta**
Now, it’s time to add your uncooked pasta directly to the pan. Pour in enough water to just cover the pasta (about 2-3 cups), depending on how much pasta you’re using. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly submerged in the sauce.

#### **Step 4: Cook Everything Together**
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s tender and the water has mostly been absorbed. You’ll need to stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.

#### **Step 5: Add Parmesan**
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in a generous handful of freshly grated parmesan cheese. This will melt into the sauce, making it creamy and delicious. If you want a richer flavor, feel free to add more cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

### **Why This Recipe is a Life Saver**

1. **Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor:** With just five basic ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time and packs an incredible punch in terms of flavor. The garlic, tomatoes, and parmesan create a perfectly balanced sauce that is simple yet satisfying.

2. **One-Pot Wonder:** No need to boil pasta in a separate pot and dirty multiple pans. Everything cooks in one pot, making this a stress-free dinner option that requires minimal cleanup. More time to relax, less time spent cleaning—what’s not to love?

3. **Quick and Easy:** In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something fast but still crave a flavorful, homemade dish.

4. **Versatile:** The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it by adding veggies (like spinach or bell peppers), swapping out the cheese for something like mozzarella or feta, or even adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. You can make it your own depending on what you have in the fridge.

5. **Perfect for Leftovers:** This recipe makes great leftovers! If you have any pasta left over, it can easily be reheated the next day for lunch or dinner. It still tastes amazing, and the flavors only get better after sitting overnight.

### **Conclusion:**

This 5-Ingredient One-Pot Pasta is truly a life-saver in the kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious, making it the perfect recipe for busy nights when you don’t want to compromise on flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit any taste preference, making it a go-to recipe in your cooking arsenal.

Now that you know this simple trick, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without it. It’s one of those life hacks you won’t believe you didn’t know about until now—and once you try it, you’ll be making this dish time and time again! Happy cooking!