You Are the Chef: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Hello, dear food lovers, and welcome back to our delightful culinary series, “You Are the Chef”. Today, we’re venturing into the heart of Italy with a classic favorite that’s both heartwarming and indulgent – the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta. This dish, with its rich flavors and velvety texture, is sure to transport you straight to an Italian trattoria. Ready to immerse yourself in the art of pasta perfection? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (about 340g) of your favorite pasta (Fettuccine, Linguine, or Spaghetti work great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: Red chili flakes and lemon zest for added zest

Instructions:

1. Pasta Preparation: Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, saving about a cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Golden Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, introduce the minced garlic and sauté until it’s aromatic and golden but not burnt (about 1-2 minutes).
3. Creamy Transformation: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to become thick and velvety. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a bit of the saved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine & Season: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure every strand is coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For those who love a touch of zest and heat, sprinkle some lemon zest and red chili flakes.
5. Garnish & Serve: Transfer your pasta to serving dishes and garnish with fresh parsley. Add more grated Parmesan on top if you wish. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a refreshing green salad.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Pasta: A great source of carbohydrates that provides energy. Opting for whole wheat pasta can add extra fiber and nutrients to the meal.
• Parmesan Cheese: Rich in calcium and phosphorus, it’s essential for bone health.

Chef’s Tips:

1. Pasta Perfection: Always salt your pasta water generously – it should taste like the sea. This helps flavor the pasta from within.
2. Wine Pairing: Complement this rich dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.

Revel in the flavors and creamy comfort of this Italian classic. And remember, with You Are the Chef, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating culinary memories. Until next time, buon appetito!

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