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pasta oil and garlic

This simple and delicious Garlic Pasta with Oil is a quick meal that highlights the rich flavor of garlic, enhanced by the smoothness of olive oil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving, optional

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta in a colander.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté gently, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant.
  • If using, add the red pepper flakes to the garlic oil and stir for an additional 30 seconds.
  • Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
  • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
  • For added flavor, consider including a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
  • Feel free to customize this recipe by adding veggies such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, or protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.

Notes

For added flavor, you can include a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding veggies such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, or protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.