PROCESS:

• First, boil water and cook pasta in salted water. Strain the pasta and preserve pasta water for later use

• In a skillet or pan, melt butter and sauté aromatics, seasonings and freshly grated parmesan.

• Next, toss in pasta water and boiled pasta, simmer and add more parmesan. Top with more herby goodness and enjoy!

Here’s what you are going to need to make it:

Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to our dish, most essential ingredient of this pasta.

Onion: Adds sweet flavor. You can use shallots for less strong flavor.

Garlic: Adds aromatic and bold flavor.

Salt: Enhances taste.

Black Pepper: For a bit of heat and warmth.

Chili Flakes: Adds a kick of spice.

Oregano: An earthy herb.

Basil: Adds sweet and fresh flavor.

Freshly Grated Parmesan: Adds creaminess to the pasta.

Pasta Water: Helps adjust the sauce consistency.

Pasta:  You can use linguine, fettucine or spaghetti if you prefer.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tbsp of butter (unsalted)

• 1/2 Onion (finely chopped)

• 4-5 cloves of garlic (minced)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp chili flakes

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1 tsp basil (optional)

• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan

• 1/4 cup pasta water

• 8 ounces (225 g) dried pasta such as spaghetti, linguine, or any other long pasta

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

• In a medium-sized saucepot, boil water and salt it. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions. When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

• In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and sauté minced onion and the chopped garlic very lightly.

• When onions turn a little translucent add all of the seasoning mentioned above and stir for about 20-30 seconds

Step 3: Add the Cheese

• Next add freshly grated cheese and a splash of pasta water and mix everything together.

Step 4: Toss in the Pasta

• Next add the hot pasta along with a part of the pasta water and toss it using kitchen tongs until a sort of thick sauce is coating the pasta. Add more pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Final touch and serve

• Remove from heat, add freshly chopped parsley leaves on top. Toss continuously and season with salt if needed. Serve warm with extra grated parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Tips and Notes:

• Don’t skip salting the water! It enhances the pasta’s flavor and is your best chance to season the noodles from the inside out.

• Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks. Al dente means it has a little bite to it, which is ideal for a pasta dish.

• The starchy pasta water helps emulsify and thicken the sauce, so don’t forget to reserve some before draining.

• If your sauce is too thick, add more pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired creaminess.

• If you’re adding chicken, shrimp, or bacon, cook them in the skillet before the aromatics, then remove them, sauté the aromatics, and add them back in later.

• Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture.

• Pre-grated cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect melting. Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes more flavorful.

• Feel free to mix different cheeses, like mozzarella for creaminess and Parmesan for a sharp bite.

• Adding fresh herbs at the end preserves their flavor. Dried herbs can be added earlier in the cooking process.

• A little lemon zest or juice can brighten up the dish and enhance flavors.

• Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally.