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 linguine or spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 60ml olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

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I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I need a delicious meal in a hurry. The magic lies in using fresh garlic and good olive oil, which come together to create a flavorful sauce in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish quickly transforms into a comforting bowl of pasta that is perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by. The best part? I can easily customize it with whatever veggies or proteins I have on hand!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:37:34.828Z

When I first made this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I vividly remember the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil as it filled my kitchen, making my mouth water. By using linguine, I found that it perfectly clings to the sauce for maximum flavor.

One helpful tip I learned is to reserve some pasta water before draining it. Adding a splash of this starchy water to the sauce not only helps it adhere better but also gives it a silky texture. It’s a game-changer that elevates this simple dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Intensely flavorful with the perfect balance of garlic and olive oil
Ready in just 15 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights
Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables or proteins

The Power of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, bringing a robust flavor that elevates the entire dish. When sliced thinly and sautéed, garlic releases essential oils that impart a warm, aromatic quality to the olive oil. This creates a super flavorful base and also adds a hint of sweetness as it caramelizes. Be vigilant while cooking; the key is to achieve that golden color without letting it burn, which can turn the flavor bitter.

Using fresh garlic, rather than pre-minced or powdered varieties, guarantees an authentic taste with a potent punch. The aroma released while cooking fresh garlic is utterly irresistible and sets an inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Additionally, feel free to experiment with varying garlic quantities; if you're a garlic lover like me, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two!

Choosing the Right Pasta

While this recipe calls for linguine or spaghetti, you can easily use other types of pasta such as fettuccine or even gluten-free options. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the shape and thickness of the pasta you choose. For best results, refer to the package instructions to achieve that perfect al dente texture, which should be tender yet firm to the bite—this adds a nice chewiness to your dish.

In addition, always remember to salt your boiling water generously before adding the pasta. This step is crucial as it enhances the inherent flavors of the pasta itself, ensuring that each bite is flavorful. As a tip, reserve a cup of that starchy pasta water; this magical liquid aids in achieving a creamy consistency in the sauce without needing to add excess oil or cheese.

Customization and Variations

One of the best features of this pasta dish is its adaptability. You can easily customize it by incorporating whatever vegetables or proteins you have at home. For instance, adding fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes just before tossing in the pasta will not only enhance the nutrition profile but also bring color and freshness. If you have leftover chicken or shrimp, they make excellent protein partners, quickly warming through in the garlic oil.

Another delightful variation could be the addition of some heat; a pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic oil can transform this into a spicy garlic pasta. If you’re in the mood for a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the garlic oil after sautéing the garlic, allowing it to reduce slightly before adding the pasta. This small tweak can turn your dish into something extraordinary!

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g linguine or spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
60ml olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Preparation Steps

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes along with the garlic. You can also mix in seasonal vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the garlic oil and cook the pasta separately, then combine just before serving. Stored in an airtight container, the garlic oil can remain fresh in the fridge for up to a week, releasing its aromatic flavors as it sits. Just be sure to warm it up gently before tossing it with the pasta to avoid shocking the flavors while cooking.

As for the pasta, you can cook it a day in advance. To keep it from sticking together, toss it lightly with a bit of olive oil after draining, then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, a quick sauté in the garlic oil will revive its taste and texture.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to the pan, which helps to rehydrate the pasta and restore its creamy consistency. Heat over low to medium heat, tossing gently until warmed through. Avoid high heat, as it might clump the pasta together or overcook it.

Freezing is another option if you want to enjoy this dish later. However, I advise against freezing the garlic oil separately; it tends to lose its flavor. Instead, freeze the pasta tossed with the oil and any additional proteins or vegetables. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and then follow the reheating instructions mentioned earlier. This gives you a quick meal with minimal effort later on!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread to mop up any remaining garlic oil and flavors on your plate. A light salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, ensuring a well-rounded meal. For a complete experience, pair with a crisp white wine, enhancing the garlicky notes while offering a refreshing contrast.

Don't forget about garnishing! Freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the garlic beautifully. If you’re a cheese lover, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan brings a nutty depth to the dish. Overall, creating a visually appealing plate after a speedy preparation can truly elevate your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. The dish is already vegetarian as written.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance. Just reheat it and toss it with the cooked pasta when ready to eat.

→ What can I add to customize the flavors?

You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or herbs such as basil or thyme to enhance the flavors.