Garlic Pasta
Garlic pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the aromatic essence of garlic to life. This recipe combines al dente pasta with a rich garlic-infused olive oil, creating a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy cooks who still want to indulge in a delicious homemade meal. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, garlic pasta is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 400 calories, 15g of fat, 60g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- If using, add red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic oil.
- Toss the pasta in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed for moisture.
- Season with salt to taste and mix well.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast instead.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, grilled chicken, or shrimp. A glass of white wine can also enhance the meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover garlic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Burning the garlic will make it bitter.
- Not reserving pasta water can result in a dry dish.
- Using low-quality olive oil can affect the flavor.
- Forgetting to season with salt can dull the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste the pasta before draining to check for doneness.
- Fresh garlic yields a stronger flavor than pre-minced options.
- Add fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for variety.
FAQs
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can substitute butter for olive oil for a richer flavor, but it will alter the dish’s health profile.
What type of pasta is best for garlic pasta?
Spaghetti and linguine are traditional choices, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added for a heartier meal.
Is garlic pasta healthy?
Garlic pasta can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation, especially if whole grain pasta and healthy fats are used.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Conclusion
Garlic pasta is a delightful dish that highlights the power of simple ingredients. With its rich flavor and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this comforting meal with friends and family, and don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste!
Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- If using, add red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic oil.
- Toss the pasta in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed for moisture.
- Season with salt to taste and mix well.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan.
