Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta
Highlighted under: Fast Table Solutions
I love making this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I need a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The simple ingredients come together in a flash, and the rich flavor always impresses my family and friends. It’s an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when I'm just craving something comforting and satisfying. The secret lies in the infused garlic oil, which adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. If you haven’t tried this yet, you’re in for a treat!
When I first experimented with this recipe, I wasn't expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together. The garlic mingles with olive oil, creating a rich aroma that fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist diving into the dish even before it’s ready. Trust me, making the garlic oil gently prevents it from burning while infusing the pasta with fantastic flavor.
What I truly enjoy about this pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or protein, making it a perfect base for whatever ingredients you have on hand. On nights when I want something heartier, I toss in some sautéed shrimp or roasted vegetables for an extra layer of flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation for busy weeknights
- Rich, garlicky flavor that’s irresistible
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients
Mastering the Garlic Oil
The key to creating the rich flavor in this Garlic Pasta lies in the garlic oil. Heating the olive oil over medium allows it to reach the ideal temperature for infusing flavor without burning. Watch for that golden hue in the garlic slices, as this indicates they have reached a perfect sautéed texture. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low. This not only preserves the flavor but also prevents bitterness from overcooked garlic, which can overpower the dish.
If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, try infusing the oil for a shorter time, around 1-2 minutes. Remember that the garlic will continue to cook after you remove it from the heat, so timing is crucial. The goal is to achieve a light golden color that lends a warm, aromatic base to your pasta without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the beauties of this Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your palate or use up remaining ingredients in your kitchen. Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus for extra nutrition and flavor. Just toss them into the skillet right before the garlic is done cooking to allow them to soften slightly without losing their crunch.
For protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be excellent additions. If you choose to include a protein, make sure to cook it separately and add it in at the end with a splash of the reserved pasta water for cohesion. This keeps the dish hearty and satisfying while still being quick to prepare.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious garlic pasta.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Have these ingredients ready for your quick meal!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your pasta.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Garlic Oil
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Pasta and Garlic
Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic oil. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
Season and Serve
Season with salt, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your quick and delicious garlic pasta!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. You can also integrate seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re short on time during the week, consider prepping ahead by cooking your pasta in advance. Store it in an airtight container with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy your Garlic Pasta, simply reheat the pasta briefly in boiling water or directly in the skillet with your garlic oil, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to heat it through evenly without drying out.
The garlic oil can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before using, as cold oil can inhibit the infusion of flavors in your dish.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your meal, serve the Garlic Pasta alongside a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up any remaining garlic oil, making each bite even more enjoyable.
For a bit of a gourmet touch, consider finishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a vegan alternative. The creamy texture of the cheese enhances the overall richness of the pasta, while a sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the flavors, adding a fresh twist that contrasts nicely with the savory garlic.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ What can I add for protein?
You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to increase the protein content.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
→ Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe is vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply skip any cheese toppings.
Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta
I love making this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I need a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The simple ingredients come together in a flash, and the rich flavor always impresses my family and friends. It’s an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when I'm just craving something comforting and satisfying. The secret lies in the infused garlic oil, which adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. If you haven’t tried this yet, you’re in for a treat!
Created by: Georgia Lane
Recipe Type: Fast Table Solutions
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic oil. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
Season with salt, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. You can also integrate seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 230mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 51g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g