When you’ve had one of those days—long, chaotic, maybe a bit too grey—and all you crave is a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Garlic Herb Pasta is your answer. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket while the world spins outside, with aromas that dance around the kitchen, reminding you of simpler times. Sometimes, the best comfort foods are the ones that whisk you away, even if just for a moment.
Steps
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water, then add your chosen pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, but aim for the lower end of the suggested cooking time.
- While the pasta is cooking, place a medium skillet over low heat and pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes to the oil, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes or until the garlic turns golden, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Stir in the fresh chopped herbs and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to blend with the oil and garlic.
- Drain the cooked pasta, remembering to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet along with 1/4 cup of the reserved water, vegan parmesan, and lemon juice. Toss everything to combine, adding more pasta water if the mixture seems dry.
- Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced. Serve immediately and enjoy your freshly made garlic and herb pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 1/2 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 6 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano, chopped
- 1/4 cup of vegan parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer. While this recipe works wonderfully with spaghetti, it pairs equally well with ravioli or your favorite pasta choice.
- Do I have to use vegan parmesan cheese, or can I substitute it with another type?
- You can substitute vegan parmesan with regular parmesan if you aren’t following a vegan diet. However, the vegan version adds a nice layer of umami that complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.
- Why is pasta water important in this recipe?
- The starchy, salty pasta water helps to bind and thicken the sauce, ensuring that it coats the pasta evenly and enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- How can I adjust the spice level in the garlic and herb pasta?
- Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference. Add more for extra heat, or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Can I use different herbs if I don’t have the ones listed?
- Yes, you can adapt the recipe by using whatever fresh herbs you have available. This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking while still enjoying a delicious pasta dish.
Tips
- Prepare Ingredients in Advance: Since this recipe involves managing two pots simultaneously, it’s beneficial to have all ingredients prepped and measured before starting. This preparation ensures a smoother cooking process.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Do not discard the pasta water after boiling. The starchy water helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, giving the dish a creamy texture. If the pasta appears dry, add more pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Cook Garlic Slowly: When heating the garlic in olive oil, maintain a low heat to avoid burning it. Slow cooking allows the garlic to turn golden and release its flavor without becoming bitter.
- Adjust Herb and Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the types and quantities of herbs based on personal preference or what you have available. Similarly, customize the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes.
Equipment
- Medium skillet – If you don’t already have a skillet suitable for gently simmering the olive oil and garlic mixture.
- Large pot – Necessary for boiling the pasta, if not already available.
- Colander or pasta strainer – For draining the pasta while reserving some pasta water.
