15 Minute Garlic Spaghetti
This simple and delicious garlic spaghetti recipe combines fresh garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and spaghetti to create a flavorful, comforting dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light side dish.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Tongs or a pasta fork
- Measuring spoons
- Microplane or grater if using Parmesan
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 5-6 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes optional
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat ¼ cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 5-6 minced garlic cloves and cook for 2-3 minutes, until golden and fragrant, but not browned.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the oil. If the pasta seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Plate the garlic spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Watch the garlic closely: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep the heat at medium and stir frequently.
- Customize the heat: Crushed red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice touch of heat if you like a little spice.
- Use fresh ingredients: This dish is all about simple, fresh flavors. Fresh garlic and a good-quality olive oil make a big difference.