Elevate your dinner table with this simple yet flavorful Spaghetti Side Dish, the perfect complement to any main course. Featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in fragrant olive oil infused with sautéed garlic and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. Fresh parsley, zesty lemon, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese add layers of brightness and richness, while a splash of reserved pasta water ensures every strand is perfectly coated. Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy spaghetti recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a versatile side dish your guests will love.
Bring 2 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the spaghetti.
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Finely mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
Add 0.5 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir briefly to combine.
Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the spaghetti.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper mixture. Toss well to coat the pasta in the flavored oil.
If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water and toss again.
Finely chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the spaghetti along with the lemon zest and grated parmesan cheese.
Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Calories |
787 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 39.1 g | 50% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.3 g | 52% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 27 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 2623 mg | 114% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 83.3 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.8 g | 21% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.5 g | ||
| Protein | 25.1 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 453 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 237 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.