Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic Recipe
Description:
Looking for a quick, economical, and incredibly delicious dish that’s been loved for generations? Look no further than this classic Italian Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic recipe! Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or hosting a last-minute gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Even the pickiest eaters, including children and grandchildren, can’t resist its flavorful allure. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a memorable meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu lunch gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the secrets to making this timeless favorite.
Recipe Overview:
- Name: Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, European, < 30 Mins, Stove Top
- Aggregated Rating: 5 stars
- Review Count: 30 reviews
- Calories: 888.2 per serving
- Fat Content: 38.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.4g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 12.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 114.8g
- Fiber Content: 5.1g
- Sugar Content: 4.1g
- Protein Content: 20.1g
- Recipe Yield: 6-8 cups
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 lb |
| Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic | 3-4 cloves |
| Dried Parsley | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh Parsley | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a brisk boil. Don’t forget to add a generous pinch of salt to the water – this helps flavor the pasta as it cooks.
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Cook the Spaghetti: Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti to the pot, following the instructions on the box for the cooking time. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
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Prepare the Garlic Oil: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. While the oil is heating, thinly slice the garlic cloves.
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Infuse the Oil: Add the sliced garlic to the heated olive oil, allowing it to cook gently until it turns a pale golden color. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can become bitter.
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Add Seasonings: Once the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, sprinkle in the dried parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
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Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the cooked spaghetti, be sure to reserve about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid will help create a silky sauce for the pasta.
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Combine Pasta and Garlic Oil: Drain the cooked spaghetti and transfer it to a large serving bowl. Pour the garlic-infused olive oil over the pasta, tossing gently to coat each strand evenly.
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Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water will help bind the sauce and create a glossy finish.
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Garnish and Serve: Once the pasta is coated in the garlic oil and perfectly seasoned, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, piping hot, and watch as your family and friends devour this simple yet satisfying dish.
Cook’s Tips:
- For a flavor boost, consider adding red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese to the finished dish.
- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, to suit your taste preferences.
- To make this dish even heartier, add sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day; simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce if needed.
Conclusion:
With its simple yet irresistible combination of pasta, olive oil, and garlic, this Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that stands the test of time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting simplicity. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds! 🍝✨
