Garlic Butter Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 200 g spaghetti or linguine; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (chopped); Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Looking for a quick and satisfying meal? Garlic butter pasta is your answer! This dish combines al dente pasta with rich butter and the aromatic kick of garlic, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or linguine
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

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

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 plate): 450 calories, 22g fat, 50g carbohydrates, 10g protein. This calculation is based on a single serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
Once boiling, add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions.
While pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic butter.
Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Additionally, olive oil can replace butter for a healthier variant, and you may use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic in a pinch.

Serving and Pairings

This garlic butter pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or grilled chicken. For drinks, consider a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to restore moisture. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
Not reserving pasta water may lead to a dry dish.
Using too much garlic can overpower the flavor.
Forgetting to salt the pasta water can result in bland pasta.
Not mixing the pasta well enough can leave some strands uncoated.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for added depth.
Adjust the butter amount to suit your taste preference.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is garlic butter pasta vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it contains no meat. However, be sure to check any additional toppings or sides you may add.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, to make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.

What can I add for protein?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost. Each option complements the flavors of garlic butter pasta well.

How can I enhance the flavor?

Consider adding lemon zest or juice for brightness, or toss in sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Garlic butter pasta is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this dish as a quick dinner or a special treat, and don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own!