Easy Spaghetti
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a classic plate of spaghetti. This Easy Spaghetti recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly delicious, making it the perfect weeknight meal for busy families or a simple dinner for one. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful dish that is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe!
Why It Deserves a Spot
There are countless reasons why Easy Spaghetti deserves a spot in your recipe arsenal. First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make—perfect for novice cooks and busy individuals alike. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and a hint of spice creates a robust flavor profile that elevates this dish beyond ordinary pasta. Additionally, it’s versatile; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or herbs. Plus, it’s a satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table!
What to Buy
To make this Easy Spaghetti, here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz. (230g) spaghetti: The base of the dish; choose your favorite type.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: For a rich flavor; feel free to use regular olive oil if preferred.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a touch of creaminess.
- 3 cloves garlic: Freshly minced for the best flavor.
- Salt: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
- 3 dashes ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
- Red chili flakes: For a little heat, adjust to your preference.
- Parsley leaves: Finely chopped for garnishing, adding freshness.
What’s in the Gear List
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:
- Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti.
- Colander: To drain the pasta once cooked.
- Skillet: For sautéing the garlic and combining the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring everything together.
- Measuring spoons: To measure out your olive oil, butter, and seasonings.
- Knife and cutting board: For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.
Make Easy Spaghetti: A Simple Method
Follow these easy steps to create your Easy Spaghetti masterpiece:
Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Oil
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the extra virgin olive oil and melted butter. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Combine the Spaghetti with the Garlic Oil
Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest in a colander. Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well coated.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Add salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes to taste. If the spaghetti seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss again to mix everything well.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
Remove from heat, then plate the spaghetti. Garnish with finely chopped parsley leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Easy Spaghetti!
Fresh Seasonal Changes
One of the best things about Easy Spaghetti is its adaptability. Depending on the season, you can easily change it up:
- Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a vibrant touch.
- Summer: Toss in cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a refreshing summer twist.
- Fall: Include sautéed mushrooms or butternut squash for a cozy, autumnal flavor.
- Winter: Try adding some kale or spinach for a hearty, warming addition.
Notes on Ingredients
When preparing your Easy Spaghetti, keep these notes in mind:
Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil really enhances the flavor of the dish. If you prefer a different type of oil, feel free to substitute it, but olive oil gives the best results.
Fresh garlic is always better than pre-minced; it packs more flavor and aroma. Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
Red chili flakes can be adjusted to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder dish, start with just a pinch.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you’re looking to make this dish ahead of time or store leftovers, here are some tips:
Cooked spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic oil in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: While fresh spaghetti is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze the cooked spaghetti for up to a month. Just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.
Questions People Ask
Can I add protein to this Easy Spaghetti dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu are excellent additions that can make your meal more filling and nutritious.
What can I serve with Easy Spaghetti?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can create a complete meal with just a few extra sides!
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti?
Yes! Whole wheat and gluten-free options are great alternatives that can work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This Easy Spaghetti is already vegetarian! You can easily keep it meat-free while enjoying all the delicious flavors. Consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition.
Wrap-Up
In just a few steps, you can turn simple ingredients into a delightful meal that celebrates the beauty of Italian cooking. This Easy Spaghetti is not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a cozy dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.
So next time you’re in need of a delicious and satisfying meal, remember this Easy Spaghetti recipe. With its lovely flavors and effortless preparation, it just might become your go-to dish. Happy cooking!
Easy Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the extra virgin olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest in a colander. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil and toss to combine.
- Add salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes to taste. If the spaghetti seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss again to mix everything well.
- Remove from heat, plate the spaghetti, and garnish with finely chopped parsley leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Using high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor.
- Fresh garlic is better than pre-minced for more aroma.
- Adjust red chili flakes according to your spice tolerance.
