Spaghetti with Garlic and Basil

Name: Spaghetti with Garlic and Basil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic (thinly sliced); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup fresh basil leaves (torn); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); to taste salt and black pepper

25 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Enjoy a fragrant spaghetti dish with garlic and basil, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Spaghetti with garlic and basil is a simple yet elegant dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table. This recipe celebrates the harmonious combination of garlic and fresh basil, creating an aromatic and flavourful meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without extensive preparation, this version ensures that the natural taste of each ingredient shines through. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and satisfying.

Instructions

Boil the spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Pro tip: Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.

Add the basil

Reduce the heat to low and add the torn basil leaves to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the garlic oil.

Pro tip: Fresh basil should be added at the end to preserve its flavour.

Combine spaghetti and sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the garlic and basil oil.

Pro tip: Use more pasta water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Season the pasta

Season the pasta with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve immediately

Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Pro tip: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh basil leaves for a vibrant flavour.
Cook spaghetti to al dente for the best texture.
Adjust garlic to taste if you prefer a milder or stronger flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in spaghetti with garlic and basil?

There are approximately 450 calories per serving in this spaghetti with garlic and basil recipe.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for its aromatic flavour, but you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil as a substitute if necessary.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this spaghetti with garlic and basil recipe is vegetarian.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I add other ingredients to this pasta?

Yes, you can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for additional flavour and substance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this spaghetti dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

12g

Protein

18g

Fat

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