Midnight Pasta with Garlic, Anchovy, Capers and Red Pepper
Nothing beats well-cooked pasta when it comes to food choices. The smell of pasta cooking is exhilarating and affordable.With some essential pantry items, you can quickly prepare a delicious feast. For a flavorful spaghetti dish, make sure to use high-quality pasta, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of red pepper. If you have anchovies and capers on hand, they will elevate the taste even more.
Ingredients
- ½ pound spaghetti
- Salt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves peeled and roughly chopped
- 4 anchovy fillets rinsed and roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers rinsed and roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional
- Parmesan cheese for grating optional
Instructions
- Place the spaghetti in a large pot of rapidly boiling, well-salted water and cook until it reaches a firm al dente texture. Depending on the pasta brand, this typically takes 8 to 10 minutes, but keep an eye on it and check regularly.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for approximately 1 minute, ensuring it doesn't brown. Stir in the anchovies, capers, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another half-minute, then turn off the heat.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Add the garlic mixture and optional parsley, and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta. Serve with grated Parmesan if desired.