Easy Garlic Basil Pasta with Parmesan Cheese

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Looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner? This Easy Garlic Basil Pasta with Parmesan Cheese is your answer! Tossed with a light garlic and basil sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes and is bound to satisfy your cravings. The combination of al dente rotini, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil makes every bite a taste explosion, topped off with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that creamy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Garlic Basil Pasta is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

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Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh Ingredients: Utilizes aromatic garlic and vibrant basil.
Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or veggies for a twist.
Kid-Friendly: A hit among both adults and children.
Comfort Food: Satisfying and hearty without being heavy.

Ingredients

8 ounces rotini pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

How to Make Garlic Basil Pasta

Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
Add the chopped basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cook for another minute to allow the basil to wilt.
Incorporate the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic-basil mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice (if using) until well combined.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Results

Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil won’t provide the same aromatic punch.
Don’t overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
Always reserve some pasta water; it’s a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese.

Easy Variations

For added protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Add seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Swap out rotini for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

What to Serve With It

A simple green salad with vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
Garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.
Roasted or sautéed vegetables to round out the meal.
A light, crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to bring it back to life.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Easy Garlic Basil Pasta with Parmesan Cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

8 ounces rotini pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions:

Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
Add the chopped basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cook for another minute to allow the basil to wilt.
Incorporate the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic-basil mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice (if using) until well combined.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan cheese.

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