This is a simple garlic and olive oil pasta recipe using only pantry staples. It provides a satisfying meal when your refrigerator is empty. This recipe is a lifesaver for those unexpected moments.
Author:Mei Sprout
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:2 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian-Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta (Spaghetti or Linguine recommended): 8 ounces
Garlic: 4 cloves, thinly sliced
Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
Salt: To taste
Black Pepper: To taste
Pasta Water: About 1/2 cup, reserved
Instructions
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Add the sliced garlic to the oil. Cook slowly, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Do not let it brown too much or it will taste bitter.
Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds more.
Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic oil.
Toss well to coat the pasta. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water, tossing continuously until a light sauce forms and coats the pasta. Add more water if needed.
Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Serve immediately.
Notes
Use good quality olive oil for the best flavor since it is a main component.
If you have dried herbs like parsley or oregano, you can add a pinch when you add the red pepper flakes.
Taste your pasta water; it should taste like the sea before you drain it.