Simple Pasta with Garlic & Olive Oil Recipe

Bring a stock pot of water to a boil and add a 1/2 tsp or more of salt.

Meanwhile, put the oil, garlic, and red pepper if you are adding in advance, and a healthy pinch of kosher salt in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook until the garlic is golden, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit.

When the water boils, cook the pasta until it is al dente (6-7 minutes). When it's done, scoop out and reserve at least 1 cup of the cooking water, then drain the rest of the pasta.

Return the sauce to medium heat until the sauce is hot (1-2 minutes). Add the pasta and the sauce back to the pasta pot, along with a splash of the cooking water and toss to coat, adding a little more water as necessary to create a light, creamy sauce.

Add the parsley, additional kosher salt to taste, and more red pepper as desired, then serve.