Simple Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Serving Size: 4 people Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Garlic butter pasta is a classic Italian dish that has been adored by food enthusiasts for years. The simple yet exquisite combination of garlic and butter elevates any pasta to gourmet status, making it perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings. This recipe will guide you through preparing this comforting meal in just 20 minutes, offering an easy yet delicious option.

Before we dive into the steps, let's talk about how to prepare a perfect garlic butter pasta. Garlic and butter are staples in Italian cooking that pair excellently with a variety of pastas. The aroma of garlic sautéed in olive oil fills your kitchen, creating an appetizing ambiance. Butter complements the pasta, providing a rich and creamy texture.

To get started, gather all necessary ingredients for 4 servings:

• 250 grams of spaghetti or linguine
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced finely
• 100 grams of butter
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

If you prefer to enhance the dish with more flavor, consider adding some red pepper flakes or fresh parsley. These can be sprinkled over the pasta before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe:

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add salt and your chosen type of pasta. Follow package instructions regarding boiling time, but note that al dente is preferred for garlic butter pasta as it holds its shape better.
2. Sauté Garlic in Butter: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until golden brown but not burnt. This step will infuse the garlic flavor into the butter, which is essential for the taste of this dish.
3. Mix Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce: Once the pasta has finished boiling, drain it reserving about 1/4 cup of the cooking water. Toss the drained pasta into the garlic butter sauce in the pan and stir until it's fully coated. The pasta should be bright white from the melted butter.
4. Finish with Cheese: If you have some Parmesan cheese, sprinkle a generous amount over the hot pasta to enhance flavor further. You can also add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.

The final touch is to serve your garlic butter pasta immediately. It's best enjoyed warm and fresh off the heat. This dish is particularly delightful when paired with a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side. The combination of garlic, butter, and pasta creates a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Pasta:

• Timing is Key: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to keep its texture crisp yet chewy. Overcooked pasta can absorb too much butter and become mushy, losing its appeal.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced ones. It's also recommended to use unsalted butter if your salt content is already high enough as the garlic and salt will enhance the dish without any extra sodium.
• Don't Overload with Sauce: A generous amount of garlic butter can be delicious but too much might overpower other elements of a meal. Use just enough to coat the pasta thoroughly for an optimal balance between flavors.

In conclusion, making simple garlic butter pasta is both fun and rewarding. With this straightforward recipe at hand, you can enjoy a rich, comforting meal that impresses any family or friend who tries it. Whether it's served as a light weeknight dinner or as part of a more elaborate meal, garlic butter pasta fits seamlessly into various occasions.

Once you've mastered the art of making garlic butter pasta, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or add in other ingredients like sautéed vegetables or chicken. The possibilities are endless when it comes to enhancing this base recipe. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

Cooking a simple yet delicious dish like garlic butter pasta is an excellent way to enjoy authentic Italian flavors at home. This recipe provides you with everything you need to create a rich, satisfying meal in under 20 minutes. With the right technique and quality ingredients, your family will surely love this versatile pasta dish.