Garlic Butter Pasta
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of garlic butter pasta, a dish that celebrates the robust flavors of garlic and the creaminess of butter. This recipe is not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner at home. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels luxurious without the fuss. Let’s dive into this culinary experience that will surely impress your taste buds!
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 500 calories, 20g fat, 60g carbohydrates, and 12g protein. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil a large pot of salted water.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter.
7. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version, or add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic butter pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or grilled vegetables. It also complements roasted chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover garlic butter pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain creaminess. It is not recommended to freeze due to the butter separating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not reserving pasta water can result in a dry dish.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the dish.
- Forgetting to season with salt and pepper can diminish flavor.
- Not tossing pasta quickly with sauce can cause sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor.
- Consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this garlic butter pasta vegan, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Can I add protein to garlic butter pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms make great additions for added protein and flavor.
What herbs can I use to enhance the flavor?
Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano can enhance the dish’s flavor. Add them at the end for a fresh taste.
Is garlic butter pasta healthy?
While it is delicious, garlic butter pasta is high in calories and fat. For a healthier version, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the butter.
Conclusion
Garlic butter pasta is a delightful and straightforward dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or entertaining guests, it’s a recipe that promises satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides and make it your own!
Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta fettuccine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter.
- Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
