Easy One-Pan Pasta with Garlic and Herbs

Looking for an easy one-pan pasta dish that can be prepared in no time? This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have this delicious pasta ready to serve.

This easy one-pan pasta with garlic and herbs is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. It uses simple ingredients that most households already have on hand, making it a great option for last-minute meals or when you're short on time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or any small shape)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Cooking Instructions

To get started, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it's boiling, add the pasta according to package directions until al dente – this usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, warm up olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using; stir continuously for about 2 minutes or until the aroma of garlic is released. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can quickly turn bitter.

Once your pasta has cooked al dente, strain it but reserve a small amount of cooking water. Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot used earlier. Pour in half of the olive oil mixture over the pasta, along with the fresh basil leaves. Toss everything together so that all pieces are evenly coated.

Serve immediately in bowls or on plates, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. For a more personalized touch, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste right before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

• Fast & Simple: The one-pan method ensures minimal cleanup while keeping prep time minimal – simply combine all ingredients in one large pot or pan.
• Pleasing Presentation: Fresh herbs like basil make this dish visually appealing and add a burst of flavor with every bite.
• Cost-effective: Using basic pantry staples such as pasta, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs keeps costs low while delivering big flavor rewards.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is rich in essential nutrients like iron from the pasta and magnesium from the green vegetables. Additionally, it provides healthy fats from the olive oil which contribute to heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

For those following specific diets such as veganism or paleo, this recipe can easily be adapted: skip any dairy products used for garnish like Parmesan and opt instead for nutritional yeast flakes or lemon zest respectively. You could also substitute regular olive oil for extra-virgin olive oil if you want to add another layer of complexity to your dish.

Pairing Suggestions

This one-pan pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad on the side or some garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A glass of red wine can complement this dish beautifully too, especially if you choose a robust varietal like cabernet sauvignon which complements hearty pasta dishes well.

Conclusion

This easy one-pan pasta with garlic and herbs is more than just a simple meal; it's an opportunity to enjoy fresh ingredients prepared quickly. Whether you're looking for something quick during busy workdays or want to impress guests, this recipe provides both substance and satisfaction. Try it out next time you need a reliable go-to dish!