Ina Garten Midnight Pasta Recipe

Ina Garten’s Midnight Pasta is a go-to dish in my kitchen for those evenings when I crave a quick yet flavorful meal. With its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, this recipe embodies comfort food at its finest. It’s the sort of dish you whip up after a long day, evoking warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Whether it’s a spontaneous weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, Midnight Pasta steals the show effortlessly.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets Ina Garten’s Midnight Pasta apart is its delightful combination of bold flavors and the speedy preparation; it takes little more than 20 minutes from start to finish! This dish is a lifesaver for busy parents, last-minute guests, or anyone simply looking for a comforting meal without the fuss. Made with pantry staples, it’s budget-friendly while feeling indulgent. You’ll love how it transforms simple spaghetti into a gourmet experience.

“This is now my go-to recipe for impressing friends with minimal effort!” – Happy Home Cook

Preparing Ina Garten Midnight Pasta Recipe

Cooking this pasta couldn’t be easier. Start by boiling your spaghetti or linguine until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. While that’s happening, sauté sliced garlic in olive oil for a minute or two, adding some red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Toss the drained pasta into the garlic oil, adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water, and then finish off with fresh parsley, zesty lemon, and grated Parmesan.

Gather Your Ingredients

Everything You Need for This Recipe

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute linguine for any pasta shape you prefer! Whole-grain or gluten-free pasta can also work well for varied dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, then add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

   

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2. Prepare the Garlic Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Combine Pasta and Oil: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat well in the garlic oil. Use the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

5. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, then stir in chopped parsley, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

6. Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Best Way to Serve

Midnight Pasta is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with a few creative ideas. Serve it alongside a fresh arugula salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp. Garlic bread is a classic companion, and a glass of crisp white wine can make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Storage Tips

To keep any leftover Midnight Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to bring moisture back into the dish, heating it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freezing is possible, but the texture of the pasta may vary. If you do freeze it, try consuming it within one month.

Pro Chef Tips

• Make sure not to overcook your pasta; al dente ensures perfect texture and enhances the overall dish.
• Fresh herbs like basil or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can enhance flavor.
• For added richness, consider a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving.

Recipe Variations

Looking to give this dish your own twist? Here are some creative variations:

• Replace the parsley with other herbs like basil or oregano for different flavor profiles.
• Incorporate sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach to add color and nutrients.
• For a protein-packed version, add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken to the mix.

Helpful FAQs

How long does it take to prepare Midnight Pasta?

The entire dish takes about 20-25 minutes, making it ideal for a quick meal.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, it’s already vegetarian. Just ensure you use a vegetarian Parmesan cheese!

What’s the best way to reheat the pasta?

Gently reheat the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain its texture.

With its simplicity and rich flavors, Ina Garten’s Midnight Pasta recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Happy cooking!

Ina Garten’s Midnight Pasta

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• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A quick yet flavorful pasta dish made with pantry staples that evokes warmth and satisfaction.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot, then add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat well in the garlic oil. Use the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
5. Remove from heat, then stir in chopped parsley, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
6. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Midnight Pasta can be elevated with arugula salad, grilled chicken, or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: simple pasta, quick meal, comfort food, vegetarian dinner