Introduction
Italian Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil Sauce is the perfect dish for those evenings when you crave something comforting yet simple. This delightful recipe harmonizes the rich flavor of olive oil, aromatic garlic, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, delivering a bite of Italy right at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté until it turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the garlic oil.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and mix well.
- Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and lemon wedges on the side.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
- For a touch of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the technique of sautéing, where the garlic is cooked in olive oil to release its flavors. Keeping an eye on the garlic to prevent burning is crucial, as it can turn bitter if overcooked.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Feel free to replace spaghetti or linguine with your favorite pasta shape.
- Is this dish vegetarian? Yes, it’s completely vegetarian; just skip the cheese for a vegan option.
- What can I serve with this pasta? A side salad or grilled vegetables works wonderfully!
Conclusion
Italian Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil Sauce brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with its simplicity and bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to please and comfort. Enjoy every twirl of your fork!