Ingredients
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish a weeknight favorite:
- 12 ounces of spaghetti
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
If you’re out of spaghetti, feel free to substitute with linguine or fettuccine. For a dairy-free version, you can omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them to the garlic oil for a subtle kick.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the spaghetti to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of this quick and easy meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International