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There's something undeniably comforting about a steaming plate of spaghetti with roasted garlic butter. This dish embodies simplicity while delivering a burst of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you're a busy professional looking for a quick dinner option or a culinary enthusiast aiming to impress friends at a dinner party, this spaghetti dish effortlessly fits the bill. The combination of al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce creates a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that is hard to resist.

Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this delightful recipe for spaghetti with roasted garlic butter. This dish combines al dente spaghetti with a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce, creating a burst of flavor that’s irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it’s made using fresh ingredients like high-quality olive oil and aromatic herbs. Learn how to roast garlic for maximum flavor, and enjoy a nourishing meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 whole head of garlic

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Roast the Garlic:

    - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

      - Cut the top off the head of garlic, exposing the individual cloves. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the exposed cloves, then wrap the head in aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and roast for 30-35 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden. Once roasted, let it cool for a few minutes, then squeeze the cloves out of their skins into a small bowl and set aside.

        Cook the Spaghetti:

          - In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

            Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

              - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter together with the olive oil. Once the butter is fully melted, add the roasted garlic cloves to the skillet along with the optional red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture gently for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

                Toss Spaghetti with Garlic Butter:

                  - Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure all pasta strands are well-coated. If the pasta appears too dry, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired creamy consistency.

                    Incorporate Fresh Ingredients:

                      - Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine all ingredients and ensure even distribution. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

                        Serve with Flair:

                          - Serve the spaghetti in individual bowls. To elevate the dish, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh lemon zest for an aromatic finish.

                            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings

                              - Presentation Tips: Consider adding a sprig of parsley or a few slices of lemon on the side to brighten up the plate!