Spicy Garlic Herb Pasta

Instructions

1. Prepare Pasta Water

   1 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
   • Add a generous pinch of salt.

2. Cook the Pasta

   3 min hands-on8 min waiting

   • Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes.
   • Reserve some starchy pasta water before draining.

3. Prepare Ingredients

   5 min hands-on

   • Finely chop garlic cloves.
   • Separate parsley leaves from stems and chop both.

4. Infuse the Oil

   2 min hands-on

   • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Add garlic, parsley stems, and red pepper flakes.
   • Sauté until garlic is fragrant and golden.

5. Combine Pasta with Sauce

   2 min hands-on

   • Reduce heat to low.
   • Add drained pasta to the pan and toss to coat.

6. Adjust Sauce Consistency

   2 min hands-on

   • Gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time.
   • Toss until desired sauce consistency is achieved.

7. Add Fresh Parsley

   2 min hands-on

   • Add chopped parsley leaves to the pan.
   • Toss and cook for 1-2 minutes.

8. Season to Taste

   • Sprinkle with salt and adjust seasoning.
   • Add more red pepper flakes if desired.

9. Serve the Pasta

   2 min hands-on

   • Transfer to serving plates or bowls.
   • Drizzle with olive oil if desired and serve immediately.
   • Cooking tips:
   • To achieve a silky sauce, use the starchy pasta water gradually.
   • Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
   • Consider adding grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for extra umami.
   • Start with a smaller amount of red pepper flakes for a milder spice level.
   • Whole-grain pasta has a firmer texture, so avoid overcooking.