This one pot meal makes preparing dinner quick and easy. But even better than that, it's so delicious, it will become one of your go to recipes in the future.
12 oz. spaghetti linguini or fettuccine *
2 large shallots, very thinly sliced, about 1 cup
6 garlic cloves, minced
3 c. grape tomatoes, halved
12 basil leaves, torn in halves
2 T. olive oil
1/2 t. red pepper flakes
2 t. kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/4 t. freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
4 1/2 c. water
1 c. freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 c. toasted pine nuts
Combine first 10 ingredients in a straight sided large skillet or pot; bring to a high boil; reduce heat just enough to keep it boiling without splattering while stirring; toss constantly to prevent sticking with tongs for about 8-10 minutes. The water and tomatoes will reduce down and the pasta will release starches that thicken it and make it creamy. Don't wait for all of the liquid to evaporate. Taste the pasta as it finishes cooking. When it has softened to your liking, remove from the heat.
Stir in half of the cheese and the toasted pine nuts; adjust salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve, topped with the remaining cheese.
4-6 servings.
* You can use gluten free, brown rice fettuccine noodles, if desired.