Simple Garlic Butter Pasta: A Flavorful Meal for Every Occasion

Garlic butter pasta is a versatile and delicious recipe that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This classic dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as an elegant dinner party dish. The creamy, garlicky sauce pairs beautifully with al dente pasta and can be served with various toppings such as Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or even grilled chicken. Let's dive into how to make this simple yet delectable dish.

Ingredients:

• Penne Pasta (400g)
• Fresh Garlic Cloves (5-6 cloves)
• Lemon Juice
• Butter (150g)
• Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Fresh Basil Leaves (optional)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions:

Start by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches al dente, strain it thoroughly and set aside.

Meanwhile, peel the garlic cloves, finely chop them, and place them into a pan with 50g of butter. Sauté over low heat until the garlic just begins to turn golden brown but not burnt. Be careful not to let the garlic burn as this can impart an unpleasant taste to your pasta.

Once the garlic is fragrant, add another 100g of butter and lemon juice into the pan. Stir continuously until the butter melts and combines with the garlic and lemon juice. The sauce should be smooth and creamy. If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add more lemon juice to your liking.

Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it well but make sure to reserve some of the pasta water before returning it to the pot. This reserved water helps thicken the sauce as it cooks with the pasta and butter mixture.

Now you can add the pasta back into the pan along with about 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring everything together until the sauce is well combined. Taste test your dish, adding more salt or pepper if needed. You may also add some freshly chopped basil leaves for that extra burst of flavor.

Once ready to serve, transfer the pasta into a serving bowl and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately with a side salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Cooking time: 25 minutes (10 minutes for boiling pasta + 15 minutes for cooking sauce)

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings of garlic butter pasta, depending on portion size. If you prefer a heartier meal, consider doubling the ingredients to serve a larger group.

Tips and Variations

• If you're looking for some extra creaminess in your sauce, you can blend half of the cooked pasta with the garlic butter mixture before adding it back into the pot. This method creates a smoother consistency without using heavy cream.
• For an alternative to Parmesan cheese, try using Pecorino Romano or Asiago. Each version will offer its unique flavor profile to your dish.
• If you're aiming for a heartier meal, consider adding some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

Garlic butter pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as a standalone meal or as part of a more elaborate dinner menu, this dish will delight everyone at the table. The combination of garlic and butter creates an irresistible flavor that complements almost any type of pasta.

With its simplicity and versatility, garlic butter pasta is perfect for those days when you want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Its creamy sauce and tender pasta provide a delightful balance between rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you're cooking this dish on a busy weeknight or planning a special dinner party, garlic butter pasta remains an excellent choice. Try it today and experience why this classic Italian dish continues to be beloved by food enthusiasts worldwide.