Description
A simple yet delicious garlic butter pasta dish that’s quick to make and full of rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 whole garlic bulbs (peeled)
- 1/2 cup olive oil (just enough to cover the cloves)
- 1/2 cup softened vegan butter (or regular)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 tbsp grated vegan parmesan (or regular)
- Small handful fresh basil, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 400 g spaghetti (or any pasta you like)
- 1 cup pasta’s cooking water
- Extra parmesan, basil, and toasted breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Slow-Roast the Garlic: Place the peeled garlic cloves in a small saucepan and pour in enough olive oil to cover them completely. Set the pan over low heat and cook for about 20 minutes, swirling occasionally until soft and pale golden. Let cool.
- Make the Compound Butter: Scoop the roasted garlic into a blender, add softened butter, salt, and black pepper, and blend until smooth. Stir in tomato paste, parmesan, and chopped basil, season to taste, cover, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with well-salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until one minute shy of al dente. Reserve a cup of cooking water before draining.
- Finish the Dish: Return cooked pasta to the pot over low heat, add 4 tablespoons of the chilled compound butter, and a splash of reserved cooking water. Toss until the sauce is glossy, adding more water if necessary.
- Serve: Divide among bowls and top with extra parmesan, fresh basil, and toasted breadcrumbs, if desired.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes when making the compound butter. Feel free to add vegetables for extra nutrition.