Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic

 

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden (about 1-2 minutes). Stir constantly to prevent burning.

3. Add Spice: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic oil. If it seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

5. Season & Finish: Stir in parsley, salt, black pepper, and optional Parmesan or lemon zest. Toss everything together.

6. Serve Immediately: Plate and enjoy with extra Parmesan if desired.

Would you like to add protein, like shrimp or chicken?