Perfect Pasta with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Pasta dishes have long been a favorite among food enthusiasts for their versatility and satisfying flavors. One such dish is the creamy garlic pasta sauce, which combines simplicity with indulgence, creating a meal that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

500 grams of spaghetti or linguine pasta
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cheese: Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for garnish

Preparation Steps

Begin by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. This should take approximately 10 minutes until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. Heat up a pan over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic. Stir frequently to prevent burning, about 2-3 minutes.
Afterward, pour in heavy cream gradually while stirring constantly so as not to cause lumps. Let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly – this should take around 5 more minutes.
If desired, stir in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat before seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Once done cooking, drain the pasta thoroughly. Toss it immediately into the creamy garlic sauce pan to coat all strands evenly.
Garnish generously with grated cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino Romano work well) and serve hot straight away!

Cooking Time & Servings

This dish can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes, making it suitable for busy weeknight meals. A single batch will yield enough pasta for four people.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

The creamy garlic sauce adds richness to the dish but also contributes essential vitamins like vitamin C found in fresh garlic and minerals from the cheese. It’s important to note that while this version uses heavy cream, which is calorie-dense due to its high fat content, reducing the amount of cream used or switching to a lighter alternative can help minimize these effects.

Personal Tips for Success

To enhance the flavor even further, consider adding some sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach during the last few minutes before serving. Additionally, if you prefer your garlic less potent, reducing its quantity will yield milder results which might appeal more to certain palates.

Storage & Leftovers

If there are leftovers after dinner, store them properly in an airtight container within the refrigerator. This pasta dish should last for up to five days refrigerated or three months frozen if prepared correctly using plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the food followed by sealing with aluminum foil.

Conclusion

A creamy garlic sauce elevates simple spaghetti into something truly special, adding layers of complexity that make each bite memorable. Whether enjoyed at home on a chilly evening or served at an intimate gathering, this recipe promises satisfaction and enjoyment for all diners alike.