Simple 7-Ingredient Recipe

🍝 Pantry Lifesaver Pasta

A quick, savory one-pot wonder that turns humble pantry staples into a comforting, flavorful meal. No fresh produce needed—just heat, toss, and devour!

Total Time: 15–20 minutes
Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 10–15 minutes
Serves: 2–3

🧂 7 Pantry Ingredients Only

1. 8 oz (225g) dry pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rotini)
2. 2 tbsp olive oil
3. 1 (14.5 oz / 400g) can crushed tomatoes
4. 1 tsp garlic powder
5. 1 tsp dried oregano
6. ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
7. ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional but recommended for heat)

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👨‍🍳 Simple Instructions

1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions, usually 8–12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté aromatics: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
3. Simmer sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine & finish: Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss vigorously to coat, adding reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until the sauce clings to the pasta (it should be glossy, not dry). Taste and adjust salt if needed.
5. Serve immediately: Divide into bowls. Optional: sprinkle extra red pepper flakes on top for a kick!

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💡 Why It Works

• No fancy tools or fresh ingredients required—just a pot and skillet.
• Canned tomatoes add rich, tangy depth, while garlic powder and oregano give bold flavor without fresh herbs.
• Pasta water is the secret weapon—it emulsifies the sauce into a silky, restaurant-quality coating.
• Customizable: Add a handful of canned chickpeas or tuna for protein (though not in the 7 ingredients), or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you have it.

"This is my go-to when I’m hungry but the fridge is empty. It’s fast, forgiving, and tastes like it took hours!" — Tested with pantry staples in under 15 minutes. Enjoy! 🌟