One surprisingly simple recipe is "Pasta Aglio e Olio." This classic Italian dish translates to "Pasta with Garlic and Oil" and is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients. Despite its simplicity, it's a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be prepared in under 20 minutes. Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- Garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente (cooked but still slightly firm). Reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat a good amount of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced or minced garlic and sauté it until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as it can become bitter.
Add red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes to the garlic-infused oil and stir them around for a few seconds.
Combine the pasta and garlic oil: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, but not completely. Leave some water clinging to the pasta. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic oil.
Toss the pasta: Mix the pasta with the garlic oil, ensuring that it's evenly coated. The starchy pasta water will help create a light sauce that clings to the pasta.
Season and garnish: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for added freshness.
Serve: Transfer the Pasta Aglio e Olio to serving plates or a large platter. If you like, you can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Pasta Aglio e Olio is a delightful dish on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple green salad or serve it alongside some crusty bread for a more substantial meal. It's a great go-to recipe when you want a quick, satisfying, and tasty dinner with minimal effort and ingredients.