Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta

Name: Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 50ml olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Meal Solutions

I love preparing quick meals that don't compromise on flavor, and this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is one of my favorite go-to dishes. It’s amazing how simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and pasta can come together to create something so delicious. In just a matter of minutes, you can have a fulfilling meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether I'm busy with work or just want a quick dinner, this pasta always satisfies my cravings without much effort.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:49:34.117Z

One evening, I found myself exhausted after a long day, yet I craved something warm and flavorful. That’s when I decided to whip up this garlic pasta. All it takes is a handful of ingredients, and you have a dish that feels gourmet. I recommend using fresh garlic for that aromatic sensation; it makes all the difference in elevating the flavor.

As I was making it, I realized that the magic truly lies in the cooking technique. Sautéing the garlic slowly allows its natural oils to infuse into the pasta, creating a luscious sauce. Every forkful is a symphony of flavors and textures, making it a delightful dinner experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Simplicity of preparation without sacrificing flavor
Perfect for weeknight dinners or quick lunches
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins

      

The Role of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, providing depth and aromatic richness that elevates the dish. When sautéed in olive oil, garlic transforms from raw and pungent into a sweet, nutty essence that perfectly complements the pasta. It's crucial to sauté the garlic gently, as cooking it too quickly over high heat can lead to bitterness, which will negatively affect the overall flavor. Aim for a light golden color to ensure that the garlic is cooked properly, achieving that delightful aromatic quality.

For a milder garlic flavor, consider using roasted garlic. Roasting allows the bulbs to caramelize, resulting in a buttery and sweet taste that adds a different dimension to the dish. If you opt for this substitution, use about half the amount of roasted garlic compared to raw because it packs a stronger punch in sweetness and depth.

Pasta Cooking Tips

Choosing the right type of pasta is essential for achieving the desired texture in this dish. Spaghetti is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with linguine or fettuccine for a different mouthfeel. Regardless of the pasta type, make sure to cook it until just al dente; this means a slight firmness when bitten. This not only provides a pleasant texture but also allows the pasta to absorb some of the garlic-infused oil.

Don't forget to reserve a cup of pasta water! This starchy liquid is a powerhouse for creating a cohesive sauce. When tossing the cooked pasta with garlic and oil, adding just a splash of the reserved water can help bind everything together, adding a glossy finish. If the sauce feels too thin, return the pan to the heat for another minute or so, allowing the flavors to marry while reducing the moisture.

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
50ml olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti to the pan with the sautéed garlic. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta, garnishing with chopped parsley. Enjoy your quick and flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. It adds just the right amount of heat to this dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare certain components ahead of time. Cooked spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To prevent it from sticking together, drizzle with a little olive oil before storing. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or a pan with a splash of water until heated through, then follow the recipe steps to add garlic and seasonings.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider elevating them by adding sautéed vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. This not only increases the nutritional value but also adds flavor and texture, making a completely new meal from your quick pasta dish.

Flavor Variations

While the basic recipe is sublime, don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your taste buds! You could incorporate crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing step for a spicy kick. Adding a splash of lemon juice or zest right before serving can offer a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of olive oil and garlic.

For added nutrition, consider tossing in some spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking the pasta. These leafy greens will wilt perfectly, contributing both vibrant color and health benefits without adding significant cooking time. They make the dish even more satisfying without compromising on simplicity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all ingredients are plant-based! Just make sure to use a vegan pasta.

→ How can I add protein to this dish?

You could toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein and flavor.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just replace regular pasta with a gluten-free alternative of your choice.