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Garlic Penne Pasta

Garlic Penne Pasta
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This Garlic Penne Pasta recipe is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dinner option featuring tender penne pasta tossed in garlic-infused olive oil, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in under 20 minutes, it offers an easy yet sophisticated meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, with versatile options for dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3–4 fresh garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Penne Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Once done, drain and reserve a cup of the pasta water for later.
  2. Prepare the Garlic Infused Olive Oil: While the pasta cooks, heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic cloves and sauté slowly, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant – about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
  3. Combine Pasta and Garlic Oil: Add the drained penne to the pan with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the mixture seems dry, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen and create a light sauce.
  4. Season and Add Final Touches: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss in chopped fresh parsley and mix everything thoroughly so the flavors meld together beautifully.
  5. Serve with Parmesan: Plate the pasta generously and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best experience of warm, garlicky goodness.

Notes

  • Slice garlic thinly and evenly for consistent flavor without overpowering any single bite.
  • Cook garlic gently over medium-low heat to avoid bitterness and preserve its sweetness.
  • Use starchy pasta water to create a silky sauce without adding extra oil or cream.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually to balance salt, spice, and garlic intensity to your liking.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright finish that cuts through the richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic, penne pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, garlic pasta, vegetarian, gluten-free option, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/garlic-penne-pasta/