Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s as simple as it is sensational? The "Ultimate Pasta Cheat Sheet" is here to transform your weeknight dinners into a gourmet experience in just 20 minutes! With only a handful of fresh ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll be savoring a delightful Italian classic that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you're a busy professional or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to deliver a satisfying meal that will impress your taste buds and your dinner guests alike. Get ready to twirl your fork in a bowl of pure pasta perfection!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of spaghetti, 2 tbsp of olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic, 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes, and 1/4 cup of fresh basil. Ensure that your basil is fresh for the best flavor.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Peel and finely chop the 3 cloves of garlic. Once the olive oil is hot, add the chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet, stirring them into the garlic and oil mixture. Sauté for another minute to infuse the oil with the heat from the pepper flakes.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- Immediately add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the oil and garlic.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finely chop the fresh basil and add it to the pasta. Toss everything together until the basil is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Remove the skillet from heat and taste the pasta. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your ultimate pasta dish!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh basil and high-quality olive oil. Fresh ingredients can make a world of difference in your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente spaghetti for the perfect texture. Keep an eye on the clock and taste the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your spaghetti, remember to reserve some of the cooking water. This starchy water is a secret weapon for achieving the ideal sauce consistency.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more later if you want an extra kick!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your pasta by adding cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables for a heartier meal.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the dish visually and add a burst of flavor right before serving.
- Serve Immediately: Pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. Serve it hot for the ultimate dining experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: 84g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
