Description
Simple Pasta with Olive Oil & Garlic is a minimalist, comforting Italian dish that highlights the flavors of high-quality olive oil and fragrant garlic. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal with minimal ingredients and effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (spaghetti or linguine recommended)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta type. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Heat Olive Oil and Garlic: In a large skillet, gently heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook slowly until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it adhere to the pasta. Toss again until well combined.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste and sprinkle red chili flakes if using. Serve immediately while warm for best flavor.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help the oil blend better with the pasta.
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Garlic should be cooked gently over low heat to avoid bitterness.
- Red chili flakes add a mild heat but are optional based on preference.
- This dish pairs well with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.