Garlic Pasta Recipe

Spaghetti: A type of pasta made from durum wheat, perfect for absorbing the flavors of the sauce.

Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the dish.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and coat the pasta, adding richness.

Red pepper flakes: Optional, but adds a subtle heat to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pasta.

Black pepper: Adds a mild spiciness and depth of flavor.

Nutritional yeast: Optional, but adds a cheesy, nutty flavor and is a great source of vitamins.

Parsley: Fresh and chopped, it adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.

When cooking spaghetti, make sure to salt the water generously. This is your only chance to season the pasta itself. Aim for the water to taste like the sea. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water before draining. This can be added to the pan later to help the sauce adhere better to the noodles and create a silky texture.

• spaghetti - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles are a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that still provide a satisfying texture.

• spaghetti - Substitute with whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat pasta offers more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a great alternative for cooking.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle sweetness and is a good option for those looking for a different flavor profile.

• nutritional yeast - Substitute with vegan parmesan: Vegan parmesan provides a cheesy flavor similar to nutritional yeast and can be used as a topping.

• nutritional yeast - Substitute with ground cashews: Ground cashews can mimic the creamy, nutty flavor of nutritional yeast when blended with a bit of salt.

• fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil offers a different but complementary flavor that pairs well with garlic and pasta.

• fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, citrusy note that can brighten up the dish.

• Allow the spaghetti to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.

• Transfer the garlic pasta to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to keep the pasta from drying out.

• For freezing, portion the pasta into individual servings. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.

• Place the portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

• Label each container with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the garlic pasta has been stored.

• Freeze for up to 2 months. While it can be stored longer, the quality may start to decline after this period.

• To reheat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.

• Reheat in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of vegetable broth to help rehydrate the pasta and enhance its flavor.

• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast before serving to revive the flavors.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to the pan to prevent sticking.
  3. Add the leftover garlic pasta to the pan.
  4. Stir occasionally, ensuring the pasta heats evenly.
  5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
  6. Optionally, sprinkle some fresh parsley and a dash of nutritional yeast before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the garlic pasta in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to keep the pasta moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
  4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Stir the pasta and check the temperature.
  6. If needed, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until heated through.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the garlic pasta in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Add a splash of vegetable broth or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
  5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
  6. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
  7. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with nutritional yeast and fresh parsley, and serve.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Place the garlic pasta in a heatproof bowl that fits into your steamer.
  2. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to the pasta.
  3. Set up your steamer and bring the water to a boil.
  4. Place the bowl in the steamer and cover.
  5. Steam for about 5-10 minutes or until the pasta is heated through.
  6. Carefully remove the bowl, stir the pasta, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Large pot: Used to cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.

• Colander: Used to drain the cooked spaghetti.

• Large pan: Used to heat the olive oil and cook the garlic and red pepper flakes.

• Wooden spoon: Used to stir the garlic and red pepper flakes in the pan.

• Tongs: Used to toss the cooked spaghetti in the pan with the garlic and oil.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the olive oil, red pepper flakes, and nutritional yeast.

• Chef's knife: Used to mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley.

Pre-mince the garlic: Mince the garlic ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked pasta: Opt for pre-cooked spaghetti available in stores to skip the boiling step.

Batch cook: Make a larger batch of garlic pasta and store portions in the fridge for quick reheating.

Prep ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.

One-pot method: Cook the spaghetti in the same pan as the garlic to reduce cleanup time.