This Easy Pasta with Olive Oil & Garlic is a simple, comforting dish made with pantry staples. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for quick weeknight meals when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The garlic-infused olive oil coats the pasta beautifully, while fresh parsley and Parmesan add brightness and depth. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2–3 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- Fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook gently until soft and lightly golden.
- Reserve 1 tablespoon of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add the spaghetti to the pan with garlic oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in parsley, Parmesan, and black pepper. Toss well and serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Keep the garlic on low heat to avoid burning—it should be golden, not brown.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino for a sharper taste.
Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Vegetarian
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Serve with a side salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Nutrition (Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 14g
FAQ
1. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape works well, including linguine or penne.
2. How do I prevent dry pasta?
Use reserved pasta water to keep it silky and moist.
3. Can I make this vegan?
Simply skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild and simple—perfect for kids.
5. Can I add protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work great.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Freezer: Not recommended
- Reheat: Warm gently with a splash of water or olive oil
Similar Recipes
Easy Pasta with Olive Oil & Garlic
Ingredients
- 2 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large garlic clove minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 2 –3 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- Fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook gently until soft and lightly golden.
- Reserve 1 tablespoon of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add the spaghetti to the pan with garlic oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in parsley, Parmesan, and black pepper. Toss well and serve immediately.
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Serve with a side salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Easy Pasta with Olive Oil & Garlic proves that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for any day of the week.