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: Serves 2
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 60ml olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I often find myself in need of a quick meal that’s not only simple to make but also packed with flavor. This 15-minute garlic pasta has become my go-to dish when time is tight but I still want something delicious. With just a few pantry staples, I can whip this up in no time. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs creates a dish that's both comforting and satisfying, perfect for any night of the week.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:41:34.524Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly I could turn simple ingredients into a delicious meal. I typically keep garlic and pasta on hand, and adding a splash of olive oil and some fresh herbs made all the difference. The key is to not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente and ready to absorb the garlic-flavored oil.

I found that garnishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich depth of flavor that transforms this simple recipe into a restaurant-quality experience. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests, even when you’re short on time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
Bursting with fresh garlic flavor and a hint of heat
Versatile base that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins

      

Mastering the Garlic Flavor

The key to achieving the perfect garlic flavor in this pasta lies in how you sauté the garlic. Be sure to keep the heat at medium to prevent the garlic from burning, which can leave a bitter taste. You only need to sauté the minced garlic for about two minutes, just until it's fragrant and starts to turn a light golden color. This brief cooking time ensures the garlic's sweetness shines through without overwhelming the dish.

If you prefer a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil as it cooks can elevate the flavor profile. Just be cautious with the amount; a small pinch can add a delightful kick, but too much can overpower the garlic's subtle nuances. I love sprinkling a little extra at the end if I'm feeling adventurous!

Perfect Pasta Texture

For the best pasta texture, it’s essential to cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente, which means firm to the bite. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Remember to taste a strand a minute or two before the time is up to check for that perfect texture. Too soft pasta will become mushy once tossed with the garlic oil, while perfectly cooked spaghetti will maintain its structure.

Don’t forget to reserve some of the pasta cooking water! This starchy water is a fantastic tool for helping to emulsify the garlic oil with the pasta, creating a wonderfully cohesive sauce. If you find the pasta is too dry after tossing, a tablespoon of reserved water can help loosen it up while adding flavor.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best aspects of this garlic pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Simply add them to the skillet with the garlic during the last couple of minutes of sautéing. This not only adds color and nutrients but also elevates the dish to a full meal in one pan.

If you're looking to include protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These can either be cooked separately or tossed in with the pasta for a lighter meal. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, especially if using salty proteins like anchovies or cured olives.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
60ml olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Feel free to add any other toppings you like, such as red pepper flakes or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. Toss well to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley, and serve with grated Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious garlic pasta with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil while sautéing.

Make-Ahead Tips

This garlic pasta is surprisingly suitable for meal prep. You can cook the spaghetti and garlic oil ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply combine them in a skillet and warm gently on low heat. A splash of reserved pasta water can help revive the dish and bring everything back together.

If you're considering making this dish ahead for a gathering, prepare the garlic oil in advance. You can even infuse additional flavors by adding ingredients like lemon zest or fresh herbs while cooking. Reheat gently on low to preserve the freshness and aroma before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover garlic pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When storing, consider keeping the parsley and Parmesan cheese separate, adding them just before serving. To keep the pasta from sticking together in the fridge, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil before storing.

To reheat, you can use the microwave, but I prefer a skillet on low heat to regain that fresh texture and flavor. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help bring moisture back to the dish. Heat gently, just until warmed through, and be mindful not to overcook the pasta to maintain its integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or linguine.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli would complement the flavors nicely.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of olive oil.