The aroma of olive oil pasta wafts through the kitchen, instantly making your mouth water. With a drizzle of golden olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this dish brings comfort like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Picture yourself twirling strands of perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or spontaneous gatherings that call for easy yet impressive meals.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This olive oil pasta is super quick to prepare, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory garlic and fresh herbs for an unforgettable taste experience
- The bright colors and texture make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Versatile enough to be a side dish or a main course, it’s perfect for any occasion!
Cooking this dish last week earned me rave reviews from friends; they devoured every last bite and begged for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Use spaghetti or linguine, but feel free to swap based on your preference.
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Extra Virgin Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil enhances the flavor; don’t skimp here!
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Fresh Garlic: Crush fresh cloves for an aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
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Red Pepper Flakes: Add as much or as little as you like for that spicy zing.
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Fresh Basil or Parsley: Choose vibrant herbs to brighten up the flavors and presentation.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds creaminess and depth; use freshly grated if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.
Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about 1-2 minutes will do!
Add Red Pepper Flakes: Toss in red pepper flakes at this stage if you’re craving some heat. Let those flavors mingle for about 30 seconds before moving on.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain your pasta but reserve a cup of starchy water. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with garlic oil, tossing to coat evenly.
Adjust Consistency with Starchy Water: If things seem dry, splash in some reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should cling lovingly to every strand of pasta.
Add Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Off the heat, fold in freshly chopped basil or parsley along with grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined—this is where magic happens!
Now that you have your delicious olive oil pasta ready to serve, plate it up with an extra sprinkle of cheese and herbs for that finishing touch! Enjoy every delightful bite!
You Must Know
- Olive oil pasta is not just delicious; it’s simple to make and can be customized endlessly
- The beautiful aroma of garlic and fresh herbs fills the kitchen, making it a perfect dish for any occasion
- Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling salted water for the pasta while gently heating olive oil with minced garlic. Once the pasta is al dente, combine it with the oil mixture for a flavorful finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients like adding cherry tomatoes or spinach for an extra burst of flavor. You can also play around with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover olive oil pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for maximum flavor and health benefits
- Remember that fresh ingredients elevate the dish dramatically
- Always taste as you go, adjusting seasonings until you achieve perfection
Cooking olive oil pasta has always been a family favorite, especially when my kids devour it faster than I can serve! Their smiles are worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any pasta works well, from spaghetti to penne—choose your favorite!
What’s the best olive oil for this recipe?
A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth of flavor.
Can I add protein to olive oil pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Olive Oil Pasta
Indulge in the comforting simplicity of olive oil pasta, where perfectly cooked strands of spaghetti or linguine are generously coated in aromatic extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, and vibrant herbs. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also allows for endless customization—from spicy red pepper flakes to creamy parmesan. Ideal for cozy dinners or casual gatherings, olive oil pasta is sure to impress with its rich flavors and stunning presentation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes). Stir in red pepper flakes.
- Combine drained pasta with garlic oil in the skillet, tossing to coat. If necessary, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Off the heat, mix in chopped herbs and grated parmesan until well combined. Serve immediately with extra cheese and herbs on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
