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Easy Parmesan Pasta

A quick and delicious pasta dish drizzled with olive oil and enveloped in creamy grated Parmesan cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and comforting family meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice Spaghetti is classic but feel free to experiment with other shapes.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a different flavor, consider Pecorino Romano cheese.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing garlic.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the dish.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season according to preference.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) Adds color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Combining Ingredients
  1. When the pasta is done, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the rest. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the garlic oil.
  2. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring. If the mixture appears too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until reaching your desired creaminess.
Finishing Touches
  1. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley to add a touch of color. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk if needed.