Garlic Lovers' Spaghetti
This simple and flavorful spaghetti dish is packed with rich garlic flavor, tossed in olive oil, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a quick and budget-friendly meal that comes together in just 20 minutes with pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the boiling water.
- Add the spaghetti to the pot.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, scoop out 1/2 cup of pasta water and set it aside.
- Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat.
- Pour the olive oil into the skillet.
- Add the sliced garlic to the hot oil.
- Stir the garlic frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle the red pepper flakes, black pepper, and remaining salt into the skillet.
- Stir to combine the seasonings with the garlic oil.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet.
- Toss the spaghetti in the garlic oil until fully coated.
- If the pasta looks dry, pour in a little reserved pasta water.
- Stir well and add more water if needed for the right consistency.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta if using.
- Toss everything together to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm.