Garlic Spaghetti

Garlic Spaghetti Recipe - A Flavorful Vegetarian Dish from Italy & Vietnam

Region / culture: Italy, Vietnam | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Garlic spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that is simple yet bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion.

History

Garlic spaghetti has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The dish originated in Italy, where garlic is a common ingredient in many traditional recipes. The simple yet delicious combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among pasta lovers worldwide.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Boil the spaghetti in water. Prepare the sauce. Blend the egg, garlic, butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried sweet basil. Toss the spaghetti with the mixture and place it on a plate.

Variations

Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
Substitute regular bacon for vegetarian bacon for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the garlic until it is fragrant but not browned to avoid a bitter taste.

- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

- Reserve some pasta water to add to the sauce if it becomes too thick.

- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve garlic spaghetti with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the spaghetti al dente for the best texture.

- Toss the spaghetti with the sauce immediately after draining to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.

- Substitute fresh basil for dried sweet basil for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Garlic spaghetti can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the cooked spaghetti and sauce separately in the refrigerator.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish garlic spaghetti with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Garlic spaghetti pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover garlic spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of garlic spaghetti typically contains around 350-400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Garlic spaghetti is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the spaghetti noodles. One serving typically contains around 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The butter and Parmesan cheese in garlic spaghetti contribute to the fat content of the dish. One serving usually contains around 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

While garlic spaghetti is not a high-protein dish, the eggs and vegetarian bacon provide some protein. One serving typically contains around 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic spaghetti is a good source of calcium and phosphorus from the Parmesan cheese. It also contains vitamins A and C from the garlic and parsley.

Alergens

Garlic spaghetti contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Garlic spaghetti is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful meal option.

Summary

Garlic spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a creamy garlic sauce and al dente spaghetti, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with a side salad and a glass of wine for a delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that my friend had lent me. As soon as I came across the page with the title "Garlic Spaghetti," I knew I had to try it.

The recipe called for simple ingredients - spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. But the combination of these ingredients seemed so intriguing to me. I could almost taste the flavorful garlic-infused pasta just by reading the instructions.

I was determined to make this dish for dinner that night. So I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I minced the garlic and sautéed it in olive oil, the aroma that filled the air was intoxicating. I could tell that this dish was going to be something special.

Once the spaghetti was cooked al dente, I tossed it in the garlic and olive oil mixture, along with a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. I plated the dish and took a bite - it was even better than I had imagined. The garlic added a depth of flavor to the pasta, while the parmesan cheese added a creamy richness. It was a perfect balance of flavors.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends. They all loved it just as much as I did. And so, the garlic spaghetti became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for weeknight dinners, for special occasions, and even just for myself when I wanted a comforting meal.

But as much as I loved this recipe, I knew there was always room for improvement. So I began experimenting with different variations. Sometimes I would add sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes to the dish. Other times I would sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Each time I made the garlic spaghetti, it was a slightly different experience, but always delicious.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with many people. I have taught my grandchildren how to make it, passing down the tradition of garlic spaghetti to the next generation. And each time I make it, I am reminded of the rainy afternoon when I first discovered this recipe and fell in love with it.

I have learned so much from this simple dish - the importance of using quality ingredients, the joy of cooking for others, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. It has become more than just a recipe to me; it is a part of my culinary history, a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, craving something comforting and delicious, I urge you to give garlic spaghetti a try. It may just become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be passing down the recipe to your own grandchildren, sharing the joy of this humble yet flavorful dish with future generations.