Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta
A simple yet elegant pasta dish where tender penne is tossed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil sauce with a vibrant mix of fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this classic comes together in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil
- a.Add 2 tablespoons of salt, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Before draining, carefully reserve about 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water.
- 2
Step 2
- a.While the pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and turns a pale golden color. Do not let it brown or it will become bitter.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Drain the cooked pasta and immediately transfer it to the skillet with the garlic-infused oil. Turn the heat to low.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add the chopped fresh parsley, fresh basil, 0.75 tsp salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds to coat the pasta evenly.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Pour in 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and add the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the pasta continuously and vigorously for 1-2 minutes. The starchy water will emulsify with the oil and cheese, creating a light, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
- 6
Check the consistency
- a.If the pasta seems too dry, add more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired sauciness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Salt your pasta water generously; it should taste like the sea. This is the only chance you have to season the pasta itself.
- 2Cook the garlic over low heat to gently infuse the oil with its flavor without burning it. Burnt garlic will make the entire dish bitter.
- 3Do not discard the pasta water! The starch in the water is a key ingredient that helps the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta, creating a creamy texture without cream.
- 4Use high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
- 5For the best flavor, use fresh herbs. If you must use dried, use about 1/3 of the amount and add them to the oil with the garlic.
- 6To make this a complete meal, serve it with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken strips, sautéed shrimp, or a can of drained chickpeas for extra protein. Stir them in at the end until heated through.
Vegetable PackedVegetable Packed
Toss in some sautéed spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, roasted broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrients and color.
Lemony TwistLemony Twist
Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the very end of cooking for a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese along with the Parmesan.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is a primary ingredient, providing monounsaturated fats which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Rich in Allicin
Garlic is a potent source of allicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential immune-boosting properties.
Source of Energy
The penne pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of fuel, offering sustained energy for daily activities.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta contains approximately 585 calories. This can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion size.