Description
Garlic Penne Pasta is a simple and flavorful dish combining al dente penne with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente (10-12 minutes). Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant, avoiding browning.
- Add red pepper flakes if using, and stir.
- Add cooked penne to the pan and toss to coat with garlic oil. Add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve desired sauce consistency.
- Remove pan from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture is best.
- Watch garlic closely to prevent burning and bitterness.
- Add pasta water slowly to avoid a too soupy sauce.
- Use fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning and cheese to personal preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: garlic penne pasta, garlic pasta recipe, easy garlic pasta, penne pasta with garlic, quick garlic pasta dish