Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Adjust pasta water for desired sauce consistency.
Tender penne tossed in garlic-infused olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs for a quick, comforting dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
-
12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
-
3 tablespoons olive oil
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
-
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
-
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
-
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook penne in salted boiling water; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
-
Heat olive oil, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes 1–2 minutes.
-
Toss cooked penne in garlic oil.
-
Add reserved pasta water as needed for a light sauce.
-
Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, parsley, and lemon zest.
-
Serve garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.