Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Pasta: The base of the dish, any type of pasta can be used according to your preference.

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

Nutritional yeast: A vegan substitute for parmesan cheese, providing a cheesy flavor.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and coat the pasta, adding a smooth texture and flavor.

When sautéing the garlic, make sure to keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to prevent it from burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your pasta. For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This will give your dish a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.

• Pasta - Substitute with gluten-free pasta: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, maintaining the same texture and flavor.

• Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Provides a milder, slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish well.

• Vegan 'parmesan' nutritional yeast - Substitute with ground cashews with a pinch of salt: Mimics the nutty and cheesy flavor of parmesan, adding a creamy texture.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Offers a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor, suitable for cooking at high temperatures.

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Pasta to an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The olive oil and nutritional yeast help preserve the flavors, but it's best enjoyed sooner rather than later.
• For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The Garlic Parmesan Pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help loosen the pasta.
• Alternatively, microwave the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of nutritional yeast before serving to refresh the flavors.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of vegetable broth to prevent sticking.
  3. Add the leftover pasta to the pan.
  4. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Optionally, add a bit more nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to keep it moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open to vent.
  4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Check if it's heated through; if not, continue in 30-second intervals.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Add a splash of vegetable broth or olive oil to keep it 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.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Place the pasta in a heatproof bowl that fits into your steamer.
  2. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the bowl.
  3. Steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

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

• Colander: Essential for draining the cooked pasta.

• Large pan: Needed to heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic, as well as to combine the pasta with the other ingredients.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the garlic and tossing the pasta to coat it evenly with the olive oil and nutritional yeast.

• Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring out the olive oil and nutritional yeast accurately.

• Knife: Used to mince the garlic if you don't have a garlic press.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for mincing the garlic.

• Serving bowl: Ideal for serving the finished pasta dish.

• Tongs: Useful for tossing the pasta in the pan to ensure even coating with the garlic and olive oil mixture.

Pre-mince the garlic: Mince the garlic in advance and store it in the fridge to save time during cooking.

Cook pasta ahead: Cook the pasta a day before and store it in an airtight container. Reheat it in the pan with olive oil and garlic.

Use pre-made vegan parmesan: Purchase pre-made vegan parmesan to skip the step of making it from scratch.

Batch cook: Make a larger batch of the recipe and store portions in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

One-pot method: Cook the pasta directly in the pan with the olive oil and garlic to reduce cleanup time.