How to make pasta with garlic, oil, and chili

Are you craving a simple yet delicious pasta dish? Look no further! Pasta with garlic, oil, and chili is a classic recipe that never fails to impress. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So, let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets to mastering this Italian staple.

To start, gather the following ingredients:

– 8 ounces of spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
– 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
– 1 to 2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
– 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process:

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt to the water to season the pasta as it cooks. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté gently until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, ensuring not to burn it. This should take around 2-3 minutes. Adjust the heat if needed to prevent burning.

3. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic and chili oil. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.

4. Now, it’s time to add some extra flavor. If you prefer your pasta to be a bit moist, gradually add the reserved pasta water. This will help create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta strands. Stir well to combine and coat the pasta with the aromatic oil.

5. Season the pasta with salt according to your taste. Be mindful of the saltiness of the pasta water and the grated Parmesan cheese you might add later. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each strand of pasta gets coated with the flavorful oil.

6. Optional step: If desired, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. The nutty and salty flavor of the cheese complements the garlic and chili oil perfectly. Additionally, for a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top.

7. Serve the pasta immediately while it’s still warm. The vibrant flavors of garlic, oil, and chili will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Pasta with garlic, oil, and chili is a versatile dish that you can personalize according to your preferences. If you enjoy seafood, tossing in some shrimp or clams would make for a perfect addition. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes or add some vegetables such as broccoli or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrients.

This quick and straightforward pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and satisfying. The combination of garlic, oil, and chili creates a flavorful base that will make you fall in love with simple ingredients all over again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to indulge in a delightful pasta experience!