As a food enthusiast, I often find myself daydreaming about culinary creations that are both simple and delightful. Recently, I stumbled upon a dish that embodies this perfectly: 20 Minute Garlic Basil Brown Butter Pasta.
Now, before I dive into the details of this velvety creation, let me share what I paired it with on my last culinary adventure: a crisp, refreshing Italian Pasta Salad brimming with chickpeas, colorful veggies, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. This combination is not just a feast for the palate; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors.
What is 20 Minute Garlic Basil Brown Butter Pasta?
Imagine a luscious pasta dish that comes together in just twenty minutes. This is a celebration of flavors, where nutty brown butter meets fragrant garlic and fresh basil. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It uses common ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary.
The Ingredients
To craft this dish, you’ll need a handful of quality ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s the list:
- 1½ teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 pound bucatini noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- ½ cup freshly shredded Pecorino Romano cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
How to Make 20 Minute Garlic Basil Brown Butter Pasta: A Brief Overview
This culinary delight starts with browning the butter and ends with a mouthwatering mix of flavors. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together. In just a few steps, you’ll create a dish that dazzles at any dining table.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before cooking, gather and measure your ingredients. This will make the process smooth. Chop the garlic, slice the tomatoes, and tear the basil. A little prep goes a long way!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your bucatini noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 9-10 minutes. Once done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 3: Brown the Butter
In a large skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Let it cook until it starts to foam, then watch closely as the color turns a beautiful golden brown. You want to capture that nutty aroma, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be cautious not to burn it!
Step 4: Add Garlic and Chili Flakes
Once your butter is browned, add the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The garlic should be softened but not brown. This is the moment where the magic really starts to happen.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Tomatoes
Toss in your drained pasta and the halved cherry tomatoes. Mix well to ensure the pasta is well coated with the buttery goodness. The heat from the pasta will warm the tomatoes, just enough to soften them slightly.
Step 6: Incorporate Basil and Cheese
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Add the torn basil leaves, lemon zest, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese. Pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to create a silky sauce. Toss everything together until well combined.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Taste your creation. Adjust with flaky sea salt and more cheese if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy this culinary delight fresh!
Notes on Preparation
Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish:
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Butter: Take your time browning the butter; it’s essential for that deep, nutty flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starch in the water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the chili flakes according to your heat preference.
- Serve Right Away: This dish is best enjoyed immediately for maximum flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence, I assure you), follow these storage tips:
- Cool Down Quickly: Allow the pasta to cool before refrigerating.
- Use an Airtight Container: Store in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
- Keep it Short-term: Consume within 3 days for the best taste.
- Reheat with Care: Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or extra olive oil to revive the sauce.
- Avoid Freezing: This dish does not freeze well due to the creaminess and herbs.
Nutrition Information
A quick look at the nutrition tells you this dish can be part of a delightful meal without guilt. The use of fresh ingredients means you’re also packing in vitamins and minerals.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
Serving Suggestions
Let’s make this dish as dynamic as your dinner table! Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Pair with Grilled Chicken: A juicy grilled chicken breast adds protein and complements the pasta beautifully.
- Serve with a Side Salad: A green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta.
- Include Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch and is perfect for scooping up leftover sauce.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of additional fresh basil or parsley can brighten the dish and enhance presentation.
- Balance with Wine: A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish and can elevate the dining experience.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in 20 Minute Garlic Basil Brown Butter Pasta?
Sometimes, creativity in the kitchen is key. Here are few substitutes that work great:
- Pasta Varieties: Instead of bucatini, you can use spaghetti, fettucine, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer a gluten-free option. Each will bring a unique texture.
- Butter Alternatives: Instead of salted butter, feel free to use olive oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version. Olive oil brings delicious flavor and is heart-healthy.
- Cheese Choices: If Pecorino Romano isn’t available, Parmesan or nutritional yeast can be used. The nutritional yeast offers a great dairy-free flavor.
- Herbal Flair: Swap out fresh basil for parsley, oregano, or even arugula. Each herb will provide a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- Veggies Variations: Toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. They add color and nutrients to the dish.
Conclusion
Creating 20 Minute Garlic Basil Brown Butter Pasta is not just about feeding your hunger; it’s an experience. This dish marries the simplicity of pasta with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. From the first whiff of browning butter to the last twirl of your fork, it brings a smile with every bite. It truly embodies comfort food with elegance, and I invite you to make it part of your culinary repertoire.
So, next time you’re in a pinch and need something delicious in a hurry, remember this dish. With minimal effort, you’ll have a stunning meal that’s bound to impress your friends and family—or just your own taste buds. Enjoy!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Miso Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe
- Single Lady’s 5-Minute Gooey Molten Chocolate Mug Cake
- 6-Ingredient Spiced Pumpkin Butter Recipe
20 Minutes Garlic Basil Brown Butter Pasta – Hearty Food Ideas
Description
simple and delightful. Recently, I stumbled upon a dish that embodies this perfectly: 20 Minute Garlic Basil Brown Butter Pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
-
Before cooking, gather and measure your ingredients. This will make the process smooth. Chop the garlic, slice the tomatoes, and tear the basil. A little prep goes a long way!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your bucatini noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 9-10 minutes. Once done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 3: Brown the Butter
-
In a large skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Let it cook until it starts to foam, then watch closely as the color turns a beautiful golden brown. You want to capture that nutty aroma, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be cautious not to burn it!
Step 4: Add Garlic and Chili Flakes
-
Once your butter is browned, add the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The garlic should be softened but not brown. This is the moment where the magic really starts to happen.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Tomatoes
-
Toss in your drained pasta and the halved cherry tomatoes. Mix well to ensure the pasta is well coated with the buttery goodness. The heat from the pasta will warm the tomatoes, just enough to soften them slightly.
Step 6: Incorporate Basil and Cheese
-
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Add the torn basil leaves, lemon zest, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese. Pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to create a silky sauce. Toss everything together until well combined.
Step 7: Season and Serve
-
Taste your creation. Adjust with flaky sea salt and more cheese if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy this culinary delight fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24g37%
- Total Carbohydrate 52g18%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Butter: Take your time browning the butter; it’s essential for that deep, nutty flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starch in the water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the chili flakes according to your heat preference.
- Serve Right Away: This dish is best enjoyed immediately for maximum flavor and texture.
