1

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add 200 grams of pasta and cook according to package instructions (around 10-12 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

3

Pour in 1 cup of marinara sauce and stir well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

4

Once the pasta is done, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and drain the pasta.

5

Add the drained pasta directly to the marinara sauce, tossing it gently to combine evenly. If it’s too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

6

Next, stir in 150 grams of queso cheese until melted and creamy. Add in 1 tablespoon of chopped basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to taste.

7

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through, allowing the cheese to fully combine with the sauce.

8

Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.

2

• Add sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers and mushrooms, for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Incorporate some cooked seafood, like shrimp or scallops, to give a twist of the sea.
• Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

• Always taste the pasta water before adding salt; it should be as salty as seawater for the best flavor.
• Let the sauce simmer longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.
• Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for varied flavors.

• fat: 25 grams
• fiber: 4 grams
• protein: 20 grams
• calories: 650
• carbohydrates: 80 grams

This dish offers a balance of carbs from the pasta, fat from the cheese, and protein, making it a satisfying meal. Opting for whole grain pasta can enhance the fiber content.

• Pasta con la ricotta (Pasta and Ricotta Cheese) - Memorie di Angelina
• Burrata Pasta (30min Dinner to Impress) - Cooking With Ayeh
• How To Make Skillet Queso Pasta