Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about a dish as simple as pasta with olive oil and garlic. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warm, comforting flavors without fussing over complicated recipes or spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl! I whip this up on busy weeknights when I want something delicious but don’t have the time or energy for a big production. Just a handful of ingredients, and you’ve got a satisfying dinner that tastes like it took all day to make.
Every time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of the sweet aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, filling my kitchen with a mouthwatering scent. It’s so quick to make that I often find myself tossing the pasta in its garlicky goodness while still wearing my work clothes! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to keep it in your weekly rotation. It’s comforting, flavorful, and oh-so-easy—what’s not to love?
Ingredients List
- 200g of pasta (any type you love—spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free!)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil (the good stuff makes a difference!)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- Salt, to taste (don’t be shy with it!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)
How to Prepare Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic
Alright, let’s dive into how to whip up this delicious dish! I promise, it’s as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as pasta?). Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring that garlicky goodness in no time!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. You’ll want to generously salt that water—it should taste like the sea! This is where your pasta will soak up flavor as it cooks. Once it’s boiling, add your 200g of pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, it’s around 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. I like to set a timer so I don’t get distracted and end up with mushy pasta (oops!).
Preparing the Garlic Oil
While the pasta cooks, let’s get that garlic oil ready! In a skillet, pour in 4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that it smokes. Once it’s shimmering, add in your minced garlic. Here’s a little tip: keep an eye on it! You want it golden brown, not burnt. Give it a gentle stir and let that heavenly aroma fill your kitchen. It only takes about 1-2 minutes, so don’t wander off!
Combining Ingredients
When your pasta is ready, carefully drain it (don’t forget to reserve a cup of that pasta water in case you need it later!). Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with your garlic oil. Now comes the fun part—tossing! Use tongs or a fork to combine everything, making sure each strand of pasta is coated in that luscious garlic oil. If it seems a little dry, splash in a bit of that reserved pasta water to get it just right. Finally, season with salt to taste and sprinkle over the fresh chopped parsley for that burst of color and flavor. Serve it up hot, and enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your pasta with olive oil and garlic turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Don’t skimp on the salt: Salting your pasta water is crucial! It’s the first layer of flavor, so make sure it’s seasoned well.
- Use high-quality olive oil: The taste of your olive oil can really elevate this dish. Go for extra virgin if you can—it makes a world of difference!
- Mix in some veggies: For a little extra nutrition and flavor, toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini. They pair beautifully with the garlic!
- Spice it up: If you like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. It adds a nice warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Cheese, please: A little grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top adds a creamy, salty finish that you won’t want to skip!
- Make it a meal: To turn this into a heartier dish, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for protein. It’s a great way to customize it based on what you have.
- Fresh herbs: If parsley isn’t your thing, basil or even oregano can be a delightful alternative. Fresh herbs bring a lovely brightness to the dish!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to impress anyone with your fantastic pasta with olive oil and garlic. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers—because I know some of you like to keep an eye on that! Just a heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a typical breakdown for one serving of this delightful pasta with olive oil and garlic:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind, if you add any extras like cheese or protein, those numbers will change a bit! But hey, it’s all about balance, right? Enjoy your meal guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! One of the best things about pasta with olive oil and garlic is its versatility. You can use any type of pasta you love! Spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free varieties work beautifully. Just keep in mind that different shapes may have slightly different cooking times, so check the package instructions!
Can I add protein to this dish?
For sure! If you’re looking to turn this into a more filling meal, adding protein is a fantastic idea. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas can be tossed in for that extra boost. Just cook your protein separately and mix it in with the pasta once it’s done. It’s a great way to customize your dish based on what you have on hand!
How can I make this dish spicy?
If you like a little heat, you’re in luck! Adding red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic is an easy way to spice things up. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste—it’s a fantastic way to add warmth without overwhelming the dish. You could also drizzle some chili oil over the finished pasta for an extra kick!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and about 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table!
- Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic and olive oil creates a rich, aromatic dish that’s simply irresistible.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak it by adding veggies, protein, or spices to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Busy Nights: It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh ingredients, it’s a healthier choice that doesn’t skimp on taste!
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it a hit with kids, and you can sneak in some veggies without them noticing!
- Impressive Yet Simple: Serve this to guests, and they’ll think you spent hours in the kitchen—shhh, it’ll be our little secret!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a delicious problem to have!), here’s how to store and reheat your pasta with olive oil and garlic to keep it just as tasty as when it was first made.
First, let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from making it soggy. Then, transfer the pasta to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep it sealed tight to lock in that garlicky goodness!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, don’t just toss them in the microwave! Instead, I recommend reheating in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water to help it come back to life and prevent it from drying out. Stir it gently until warmed through, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time. If you want to jazz it up, feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even more garlic for an extra kick!
So, whether you’re saving some for lunch or dinner tomorrow, just remember these tips to keep your pasta with olive oil and garlic delicious and ready to enjoy again!
Print
Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic: 7 Comforting Secrets
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful pasta dish made with olive oil and garlic.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with garlic.
- Toss the pasta in the garlic oil.
- Season with salt and garnish with parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use any type of pasta you prefer.
- You can add red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pasta, olive oil, garlic, Italian cuisine