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### How to Make Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta
#### 1. **Cook the Pasta**
Start by cooking your pasta to al dente perfection!
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and then drain the pasta. Set it aside.
#### 2. **Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil Sauce**
While the pasta cooks, prepare the delicious garlic and olive oil sauce.
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced garlic to the pan, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as garlic can become bitter if overcooked.
3. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this stage and stir to combine. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
4. Once the garlic is fragrant, add in the reserved pasta cooking water. This will help create a silky, cohesive sauce that coats the pasta nicely. Stir to combine.
#### 3. **Toss the Pasta in the Sauce**
Now it’s time to bring everything together!
1. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic and olive oil mixture. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure all the strands are well-coated. You can use tongs or a pasta fork to gently toss the pasta in the sauce, adding more reserved pasta water if needed to create a smoother texture.
2. Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also sprinkle in some fresh parsley or basil at this point for a burst of color and flavor.
#### 4. **Serve & Enjoy**
Once the pasta is coated in the garlic and olive oil sauce, it’s ready to serve.
1. Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Garnish with a little extra parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
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### Tips for the Perfect Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta
1. **Use Good Olive Oil:** Since olive oil is the star of this dish, it’s important to use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. The flavor of the olive oil will really shine through in the sauce.
2. **Be Careful with the Garlic:** While garlic is the main flavor, it’s important to avoid burning it. Cook it gently over medium heat and keep an eye on it to ensure it turns golden and fragrant, not brown.
3. **Customize the Dish:** If you want to make this dish more hearty, consider adding cooked shrimp, chicken, or roasted vegetables. You can also toss in a handful of spinach or arugula for extra greens.
4. **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish with a burst of freshness and color. Feel free to add them in at the end for a fragrant touch.
5. **Pasta Water:** The reserved pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a silky texture that clings to the pasta. Don’t skip this step!
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### Why Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta is a Must-Try
**Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta** is the epitome of simple, yet deeply satisfying comfort food. It’s quick to make, full of bold flavors, and offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it as a side dish at a gathering, this pasta will always be a crowd-pleaser.
The creamy richness of olive oil paired with the fragrant garlic creates a luxurious sauce that’s the perfect coating for your favorite pasta. Plus, with a few simple adjustments, you can tailor the dish to your personal taste. So, next time you’re in need of a comforting, easy meal, try this Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta, and enjoy the magic of this timeless Italian classic!
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