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Quick & Easy Garlic Butter Pasta
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Quick & Easy Garlic Butter Pasta
Keyword: Quick & Easy Garlic Butter Pasta
Cooking up a quick and easy dinner can be as simple as boiling some pasta and stirring in a rich garlic butter sauce. This versatile dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're having friends over or just enjoying a quiet night at home, this garlic butter pasta will satisfy your hunger and taste buds.
The recipe yields approximately four servings with a cooking time of about 25 minutes from start to finish. If you love garlic and want a burst of flavor in every bite, then this dish is for you! Garlic has been used in cooking for thousands of years due to its numerous health benefits and incredible taste. The allicin compound found within garlic not only gives it that pungent aroma but also helps fight off colds, boosts your immune system, and reduces inflammation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 5 cloves of garlic finely minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water and add your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
In a separate pan, heat up 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it's hot, add the minced garlic cloves.
Cook the garlic for about one minute, stirring frequently so that it doesn't burn. Garlic should be fragrant but not browned; otherwise, you may end up with a bitter taste in your dish.
Once the pasta is done cooking, reserve 1 cup of hot pasta water before draining the rest. Drain the pasta and toss it into the pan with garlic oil immediately to prevent sticking.
Add salt if you prefer a stronger flavor; however, many people find that just the natural saltiness from the pasta is enough for this dish.
Stir everything together until well combined. If it seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water little by little until you achieve your desired consistency.
Serve immediately and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top if using. Garnish with grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Optional Additions & Modifications
- For a creamier texture, add 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream or half-and-half during the final stages of mixing. This will thicken your sauce slightly but maintain its light and fresh taste.
- Swap out garlic for other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for a Mediterranean twist.
- To add protein, toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Mixing Pasta with Sauce: Always mix the pasta right after draining to avoid sticking. The heat of the freshly boiled pasta will melt the butter and garlic oil into your noodles seamlessly.
Pasta Selection: Opt for whole wheat varieties if you're looking for a healthier alternative, but regular pasta works just fine too!
Garnishing: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make great garnishes not only because they look pretty but also add flavor and freshness to your dish.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving depending on portion size
- Fat: 17g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Potassium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
Garlic butter pasta is an easy, affordable, and delicious dish that can be prepared quickly. It’s ideal for those times when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with family and friends, this recipe offers versatility, ease of preparation, and a burst of flavor that makes every bite enjoyable.
Try experimenting with different pasta shapes, adding various toppings such as mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes, or incorporating a variety of cheeses to create your unique version. With endless possibilities, there’s always room for creativity when it comes to this classic Italian favorite!