Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s both simple and sensational? Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with our Garlic Brussels Sprouts Pasta—a delightful medley of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that combines the earthy goodness of Brussels sprouts with the aromatic punch of garlic, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re a busy professional or a culinary novice, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy. Get ready to discover your new favorite pasta dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, trim the ends of Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add halved Brussels sprouts, cut-side down, and cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes until they develop a golden-brown caramelization.
- Flip Brussels sprouts and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with Brussels sprouts.
- Toss pasta and Brussels sprouts together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional red pepper flakes or Parmesan if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: To achieve that ideal al dente texture, keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Follow the package instructions but taste it a minute or two before the time is up to ensure it's just right!
- Caramelization is Key: When cooking the Brussels sprouts, don’t rush the process! Allow them to sit cut-side down in the skillet for a few minutes without stirring to develop that beautiful golden-brown color and rich flavor.
- Garlic Timing: Add the minced garlic only after the Brussels sprouts are nicely caramelized. This prevents the garlic from burning and becoming bitter, allowing it to infuse the dish with its fragrant aroma.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta cooking water! This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta.
- Finishing Touches: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving. It brightens the dish and enhances the overall taste.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like toasted nuts, fresh herbs, or even a squeeze of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 353kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
