The recipe you’ve shared, Unbelievably Creamy Garlic & Green Olive Pasta, is a delightful homage to relaxed, intuitive cooking inspired by “The Frugal Gourmet”. It captures the essence of cooking with spontaneity and personal flair, rather than rigid measurements and precise instructions. Here’s a detailed exploration of the recipe and its unique characteristics:
Recipe Overview:
- Name: Unbelievably Creamy Garlic & Green Olive Pasta
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Description: This recipe embodies a casual, adaptable approach to gourmet cooking, celebrating the joy of experimenting in the kitchen without strict rules or measurements.
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Keywords: Cheese, Very Low Carbs, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, < 30 Mins, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Easy
- Rating: 5 stars
- Review Count: 11
Ingredients:
- Pasta: Choose your favorite type (spaghetti, capellini, vermicelli, or linguini)
- Green Olives: Chopped to preference
- Fresh Garlic: Sliced, ensuring fresh cloves for optimal flavor
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing
- Half-and-Half: Provides richness and creaminess
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated over the dish
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground
- Parsley: Chopped, preferably fresh
Instructions:
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Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of water. Cook the pasta until al dente, then keep it warm.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a hot non-stick sauté pan, add olive oil, sliced fresh garlic, and a generous amount of chopped green olives. Sauté briefly, avoiding browning the garlic.
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Add Cream: Pour in the half-and-half, bringing it to a simmer. Cook over low heat until the liquid reduces by almost half, thickening the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
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Combine and Serve: Pour the creamy olive and garlic sauce over the hot pasta. Sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
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Serve: Plate immediately and enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta dish right away.
Cooking Tips and Personal Touch:
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Flexibility: The recipe encourages personalization based on ingredient availability and personal taste. Adjust the amount of garlic, olives, and cheese according to your preference.
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Fresh Ingredients: Emphasizes the use of fresh garlic for maximum flavor impact. This ensures the dish remains vibrant and delicious.
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Serving: Best served immediately after tossing to preserve the creamy texture and flavors.
Final Thoughts:
Unbelievably Creamy Garlic & Green Olive Pasta celebrates the evolution of cooking from rigid measurements to intuitive, enjoyable experimentation. Inspired by “The Frugal Gourmet”, it encourages home chefs to embrace spontaneity and creativity in the kitchen, ultimately resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience with every bite.