Pasta With Garlic
A simple yet flavorful pasta dish featuring garlic, olive oil, and parsley with a hint of anchovy and cayenne for a delightful, quick meal perfect for any garlic lover.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti until done; drain.
- Mince the garlic.
- Combine the olive oil, garlic, anchovy paste, chopped parsley, cayenne, and butter into the hot pot.
- Return the cooked spaghetti to the pot and toss over low heat until the butter has melted.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced varieties. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the anchovy paste or substitute it with a touch of soy sauce for umami. Adjust the cayenne to your heat preference, and consider adding grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. This pasta dish is simple yet versatile, making it a great base for further enhancements like sautéed vegetables or proteins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Duane'S Clam Linguine or a seafood recipe to elevate your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to the pasta in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the pasta in short intervals, checking and stirring to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Garlic contains roughly 337 calories, with 12g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (131% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1823mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately ahead of time. Store the cooked spaghetti and sauce in the refrigerator, and combine them just before serving. This helps maintain the texture of the pasta and ensures the sauce doesn't absorb too much moisture.
What can I add to this pasta for more protein?
To boost the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. These additions complement the garlic and olive oil flavor profile beautifully, transforming the dish into a heartier meal without overpowering its simplicity.
Is it necessary to use fresh parsley?
While fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor and color, you can substitute it with dried parsley if needed. Use about one tablespoon of dried parsley for every three tablespoons of fresh. However, fresh herbs are always recommended for the best taste and aroma.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).