Pressed for time but still craving something flavorful and comforting? This Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe is exactly what you need. Using simple, inexpensive ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy dish in less than 20 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe blends the richness of garlic with the smoothness of Parmesan, creating a meal that is both delicious and light. Plus, it’s budget-friendly without compromising on taste or quality.
Ingredients:
200 g of pasta (spaghetti or any other type you prefer)
3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
40 g of grated Parmesan or any budget-friendly grated cheese
2 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower for a more economical option)
1 tablespoon of butter or margarine
Salt and pepper to taste
Dried parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a vigorous boil. Add the pasta once it reaches boiling point and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or according to package directions.
While the pasta cooks, heat the oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. The butter adds a creamy texture, while the oil keeps the dish light.
Once the oil and butter are hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, just until it turns golden and fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
Before straining, set aside some of the cooking water. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s texture later.
Toss the drained pasta directly into the pan with the garlic. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta soaks up all the garlicky goodness.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pasta and toss until the cheese melts and coats the pasta. If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to create a creamier sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of dried parsley.
Ready in 15 minutes!
This recipe is perfect for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal, whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group. The combination of pasta, garlic, and Parmesan creates a simple yet incredibly tasty dish, ideal for those nights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.