Irresistible Olive Oil Pasta: A Quick & Tasty Delight

Imagine a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta, glistening with olive oil and adorned with fresh herbs. The aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to take that first delectable bite. Olive oil pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that dances on your palate, bringing warmth and comfort to any table.

This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet impressive. Picture yourself serving it at a casual dinner party or a cozy family gathering. Your guests will be captivated by its simplicity and rich flavors, leaving them eagerly asking for seconds.

I remember the first time I made olive oil pasta for my friends. Their faces lit up after the first bite, and we spent the whole evening laughing over bowls of this delightful dish.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type—spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work wonderfully.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Opt for high-quality olive oil to elevate the flavor profile.

• Fresh Garlic: Use minced garlic to infuse the oil with aromatic goodness.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color; choose ripe ones for the best taste.

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Fresh herbs provide a burst of freshness; chop them right before serving.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds creaminess and depth; always use fresh for maximum flavor.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, add extra virgin olive oil along with minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then toss in halved cherry tomatoes until they burst and soften.

Add Cooked Pasta: Drain the pasta once cooked, reserving some pasta water. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with garlic and tomatoes, tossing gently to combine all flavors.

Season It Up!: Sprinkle in salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Remove from heat and fold in freshly chopped basil or parsley along with grated Parmesan cheese. This will create an irresistible creamy texture.

Serve Warm!: Plate your beautiful olive oil pasta immediately while still warm. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired and garnish with additional herbs or cheese.

Enjoy this delightful dish solo or pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for an even heartier meal! Your taste buds will thank you as they revel in every exquisite bite of olive oil pasta—a true culinary masterpiece!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling salted water for the pasta while you heat olive oil in a separate pan. Cook the pasta al dente and toss it quickly with the oil to absorb flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or herbs. Adding roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes can elevate your olive oil pasta to gourmet status.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover olive oil pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm gently on low heat to retain moisture.

Sharing this dish with family always brings back memories of laughter and joy around the table. It’s simple yet elegant, making everyone feel special with each bite.

FAQ

What type of olive oil is best for olive oil pasta?

Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor and health benefits.

Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

You can substitute with avocado or sunflower oil but will miss that unique flavor.

How long can I store leftover olive oil pasta?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days before serving again.

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Olive Oil Pasta

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Indulge in the comforting flavors of Olive Oil Pasta, a quick yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. With al dente pasta tossed in high-quality extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, and vibrant cherry tomatoes, this meal is both satisfying and visually appealing. Finished with fragrant herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, every bite promises to delight your palate and warm your heart.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
2. Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
3. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic and tomatoes. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
5. Finish: Remove from heat; stir in chopped herbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 67g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 20mg