Almost As Simple Pasta With Parmesan, Herbs, and Fresh Garlic

🍝 Almost As Simple Pasta With Parmesan, Herbs, and Fresh Garlic 🧀🌿

What is it?
Almost As Simple Pasta With Parmesan, Herbs, and Fresh Garlic is a delightful and easy-to-make pasta dish that combines the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese with the freshness of herbs and the boldness of fresh garlic. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting Italian-inspired dish.

History:
This dish is a modern take on classic Italian pasta recipes. Italian cuisine is known for its simplicity and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Combining pasta with Parmesan, herbs, and garlic is a timeless concept that has been adapted and evolved over the years to suit different tastes and preferences.

Components:

• Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or any other favorite)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs (such as basil, parsley, or chives)
• Fresh garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.

2. Prepare the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, finely chop the fresh garlic cloves. You can use as much garlic as you like, depending on your preference for the intensity of the garlic flavor.

3. Sauté the Garlic: In a separate pan, heat some olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté it gently until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

4. Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it in a colander.

5. Combine Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, toss the drained pasta with the sautéed garlic and a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The heat from the pasta will help melt the cheese and create a creamy sauce.

6. Add Fresh Herbs: Finely chop your chosen fresh herbs (such as basil, parsley, or chives) and sprinkle them over the pasta. The herbs will add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

7. Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top for added flavor. Give everything a gentle toss to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

8. Serve Immediately: Serve your Almost As Simple Pasta With Parmesan, Herbs, and Fresh Garlic hot, straight from the bowl. Garnish with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.

Time Needed to Prepare:

• Cooking the pasta: 8-10 minutes
• Preparing and sautéing the garlic: 5-7 minutes
• Grating cheese and chopping herbs: 5 minutes
• Assembling and seasoning the dish: 2-3 minutes

In total, you can have this delicious pasta ready in approximately 20-25 minutes. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️👌

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almost As Simple Pasta With Parmesan, Herbs, and Fresh Garlic:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Saturated Fat: 5-8 grams
• Fiber: 2-4 grams
• Sugars: 1-2 grams
• Sodium: 400-500 mg
• Calcium: 150-200 mg
• Iron: 2-3 mg

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: This pasta dish provides a moderate amount of calories, making it a reasonable meal choice for most individuals when part of a balanced diet.

2. Carbohydrates: Pasta is a significant source of carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary energy source. Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

3. Protein: The dish contains a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.

4. Fats: It contains some healthy fats from olive oil and the cheese. These fats provide flavor and can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

5. Saturated Fat: Be mindful of the saturated fat content, especially if you’re concerned about heart health. You can reduce it by using less cheese or opting for lower-fat cheese options.

6. Fiber: While pasta itself is not very high in fiber, you can increase the fiber content by choosing whole wheat pasta or adding more vegetables to the dish.

7. Sodium: The sodium content may vary based on the amount of salt used in the recipe. Be cautious with added salt, especially if you have high blood pressure.

8. Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health.

9. Iron: Pasta contains some iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in the body.

10. Customization: You can make this dish healthier by incorporating whole-grain pasta, reducing cheese or choosing a lower-fat cheese variety, and adding more vegetables for added vitamins and minerals.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your preparation. Always consider your individual dietary needs and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized nutrition advice.