Garlic Butter Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 200 g spaghetti or fettuccine; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))

Garlic butter pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. The dish is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch. Get ready to savor a bowl of creamy, garlicky goodness that will leave you wanting more!

Ingredients

– 200g spaghetti or fettuccine
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Based on 1 serving (100g), this dish contains approximately 450 calories, 18g of fat, 60g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
If using, add red pepper flakes and stir.
Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic butter.
Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic butter sauce.
Add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt and pepper, then stir in Parmesan cheese.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter version, and use dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option. Additionally, you can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

Garlic butter pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or grilled chicken. A glass of white wine also complements this dish beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta, which makes it mushy.
Not reserving pasta water, missing the chance to adjust sauce consistency.
Using too much garlic can overpower the dish.
Not properly seasoning the pasta water.
Skipping the cheese, which adds richness to the flavor.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Experiment with different types of pasta.
Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; let the garlic develop its flavor.

FAQs

Can I make garlic butter pasta vegan?

Yes, you can easily make it vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil and using a plant-based cheese alternative.

What type of pasta works best?

While spaghetti and fettuccine are popular choices, any pasta shape you enjoy will work well with garlic butter sauce.

How do I make the pasta sauce creamier?

Adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese can enhance the creaminess of the sauce.

Can I add protein to the dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions for a heartier meal.

Is garlic butter pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it can be made in advance, but be sure to store it properly and reheat gently to maintain flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Garlic butter pasta is a delightful and versatile dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this recipe and make it your own!