Ina Garten Midnight Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Ina Garten’s Midnight Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a late-night snack or a quick dinner. With garlic, chili flakes, and Parmesan, this pasta delivers comforting, bold flavors in just minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor.
- Step 4: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the skillet before tossing in the pasta.
- Substitute basil or oregano for parsley for a different herb twist.
- Add cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and texture.
Storage
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, this recipe works well with various long noodles such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. Adjust cooking time as needed for different shapes.
How spicy is this pasta?
The 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a mild heat that can be adjusted up or down depending on your preference.
PrintIna Garten Midnight Pasta Recipe
Ina Garten’s Midnight Pasta is a simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring al dente spaghetti or linguine tossed in a fragrant garlic and olive oil sauce, enhanced with red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a late-night meal or a comforting dinner any time of the day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
Sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Garnishes and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Add heat: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to infuse the oil with spice.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil, tossing well to coat the noodles evenly. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
- Finish seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh garlic for best aroma and flavor.
- The reserved pasta water is key to creating a silky sauce that coats the pasta.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute pasta with gluten-free spaghetti.
- Freshly grated Parmesan adds a better melting texture compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Keywords: Midnight Pasta, Ina Garten, Garlic Pasta, Easy Italian Pasta, Spaghetti Recipe, Quick Dinner
