Garlic and herb white spaghetti

Garlic and herb white spaghetti is a delightful dish featuring garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil, making it light yet flavorful. This quick recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and can be served as a main or side dish.

05 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

16 oz pasta
1/2 cup olive oil
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 dash salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tbsp basil
1 tbsp fresh parsley
3 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp fresh thyme
Garlic and herb white spaghetti

Garlic and herb white spaghetti is a simple yet delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of olive oil. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Ideal for those who love pasta but want to keep it light and flavorful, this dish can be served as a main course or a side dish.

Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and add a dash of salt.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
2. Prepare the Herb Mixture:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic powder, black pepper, dried basil (if using dried), dried oregano, and dried thyme (if using dried) to the skillet.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the herbs are fragrant.
- If using fresh herbs, set them aside for now.
3. Combine Pasta and Herbs:
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the herb oil mixture.
- Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the herb mixture. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
- If you're using fresh basil and thyme, add them now along with the fresh parsley. Toss well to combine.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
5. Serve:
- Serve the garlic and herb white spaghetti hot.
- Optionally, garnish with more fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

A perfect blend of garlic and herbs, this white spaghetti offers a delightful culinary experience with minimal ingredients and effort. Whether serving it for a family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to please the palate and bring a touch of elegance to your meal.

Garlic and herb white spaghetti FAQ:

How long should I cook the pasta for garlic and herb white spaghetti?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to taste it a minute or two before the package time to ensure it's cooked to your preference.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs. In this recipe, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried ones, adding them at the end to preserve their flavor.

What type of pasta works best for garlic and herb white spaghetti?

You can use any type of pasta, but long strands like spaghetti or linguine work particularly well, as they hold onto the garlic and herb flavors nicely.

How should I store leftover garlic and herb white spaghetti?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

What can I substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado or canola oil. However, the flavor will vary slightly, so choose an oil with a mild flavor for the best results.

Tips:

- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs, but remember the flavor intensity may differ.

- Cook the pasta al dente for a perfect texture.

- Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the consistency of the dish if needed.

- Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the flavor.

Nutrition per serving

5 Servings
Calories 350kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 3.69g
Sugar 2.52g
Fat 24g

More recipes

Parmesan zucchini spears

Crispy Parmesan zucchini spears, perfect for any meal.

24 Jan 2026

Cheesy stuffed eggplant parmigiana

Hearty stuffed eggplants filled with cheese and breadcrumbs, baked to perfection.

06 Jan 2026

Floral focaccia

Create beautiful floral focaccia with fresh veggies and tasty bread.

05 Dec 2025

Spinach and vegetable risotto

Creamy spinach and vegetable risotto with fresh veggies.

18 Dec 2025

Italian stuffed capsicums

Stuffed capsicums filled with prosciutto, garlic, and cheese.

04 Dec 2025

Prosciutto and spinach arancini

Crispy arancini balls filled with prosciutto and spinach.

29 Nov 2025

Quick bolognese

Easy Quick Bolognese ready in under an hour for weeknight meals.

11 Nov 2025

Spaghetti with rich meat sauce

A hearty spaghetti with rich meat sauce recipe for family dinners.

09 Jan 2026

Posts