The beauty of cooking the Italian way is that it can be perfectly simple. All you need is a few high-quality ingredients to make a quick, delicious meal. Today we’ll do the simplest pasta recipe that is both filling and comforting. And it’s done in a snap! Let’s get cooking.
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The Simplest Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. fresh pasta of your choice – we recommend a long-cut pasta like spaghetti or bucatini
- Roasted garlic – recipe here
- A good Italian extra virgin olive oil
- ½ – 1 cup Parmesan-Reggiano cheese, grated
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to instructions on package.
- While pasta cooks, use a back of a fork to mash roasted garlic cloves.
- Return cooked pasta to the warm pot. Add mashed cloves, parmesan cheese, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Mix, letting cheese slightly melt into the pasta.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
The Simplest Pasta Recipe Pro Tips
- Buy a wedge of Parmesan-Reggiano cheese and grate just before cooking. Freshly grated is the best!
- Use a pasta that will really pick up the cheese, olive oil, and spices. The above recommendations are our favorites for this recipe, but you can also use capellini or vermicelli.
- Save time: grate the cheese and mash the garlic while pasta is cooking.
- Serve with wine! For this cheesy pasta dish we recommend a full-bodied white or a light-bodied red. Try a Sicilian Chardonnay or a Langhe Nebbiolo for a perfect pairing.
Alternative Pasta Shapes and Why They Matter
While long-cut pastas like spaghetti or bucatini are our go-tos for this simple dish, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Each shape brings something special to the table:
- Linguine clings to our garlicky, cheesy sauce with its flat edges.
- Fettuccine offers a wider surface to catch the rich flavors.
For those with dietary restrictions, we’ve got you covered:
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Look for sturdy shapes like gluten-free spaghetti that can handle our bold flavors without falling apart.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: If you’re after more fiber and a nuttier taste, whole wheat spaghetti is your friend here.
Just keep an eye on the cooking time—these alternatives may need a little extra attention to reach that perfect al dente texture. Whichever pasta you pick, it’ll be a delicious canvas for those luxurious, simple ingredients.
Seasoning and Spice Variations
A dash of seasoning can transform any dish from good to great, and pasta is no exception. Our simple recipe is a classic, but feel free to sprinkle in a little extra personality:
- A chiffonade of basil will add a fresh, aromatic lift.
- Chopped parsley gives a color pop and a hint of earthiness.
- A pinch of chili flakes can kick things up for those who fancy a bit of heat.
And let’s not forget the pasta water – it’s the secret to seasoned pasta from the inside out. A generous handful of salt in the boiling water is the key. It should taste as salty as the sea, infusing the pasta with just the right touch of flavor to complement our simple yet scrumptious sauce.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
When it’s time to serve up your pasta masterpiece, presentation is the cherry on top. Twirl that spaghetti high on a fork and let it nestle on the plate in a heap of golden, cheesy goodness. A drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for that touch of gourmet.
Pair your pasta with a side that sings of simplicity – a light, crisp salad with a lemony vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables tossed in herbs. They’ll add color and a fresh crunch to your meal. And remember, the best dishes are served with a side of amore!
4 Responses
Sometimes we leave the parmesan rind in while boiling pasta water!