Garlic Basil Pasta

Posted on February 24, 2026

Posted By : Ethan

Main Dishes

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring garlic, basil, and perfectly cooked pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Garlic Basil Pasta: A Simple Delight

There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma of garlic sautéing in olive oil, especially on a breezy evening. I remember the many nights my grandmother would whip up her signature Garlic Basil Pasta in her cozy kitchen. The fragrant herbs would swirl in the air, beckoning us to gather around the table as laughter and stories floated through the air. That dish was not just a meal; it was a warm embrace on a plate. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved Garlic Basil Pasta recipe with you, filled with nostalgia and love.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Garlic Basil Pasta apart is its beautiful harmony of flavors—fresh garlic, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked pasta, all kissed with the richness of olive oil. Plus, it’s a quick dish to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight meal after a long day. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up a comforting plate that showcases the freshness of basil and the warmth of garlic, reminding you of home cooked meals.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:

12 oz spaghetti or linguine (Feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed)
4 cloves garlic, minced (Adjust to your taste; you can always add more!)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (Quality oil makes a big difference; consider using a flavored one for a twist.)
1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (Thai basil can be a fun variation for a unique flavor.)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated (Optional for serving; nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute.)

Instructions

To begin, fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Once bubbling, it’s time to add your pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

While the pasta cooks, warm up a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in your olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic turns golden and fragrant—about 1–2 minutes. Keep an eye on it; burnt garlic is no one’s friend!

When your pasta is ready, reserve about a cup of the pasta water, then drain the noodles. Introduce the drained pasta to your skillet with the garlic oil, and toss until the pasta is beautifully coated.

Here’s where the magic happens! Gradually add the fresh basil, and if it seems a bit dry, pour in a little reserved pasta water—this will help create a lovely, silky sauce. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go, until you find that perfect balance.

Once well-mixed, let everything cook for another minute to meld the flavors. Finally, remove from heat, plate, and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy as a Cozy Family Meal

For a delightful family dinner, serve this Garlic Basil Pasta with a fresh side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping, making it an easy, heartwarming meal loved by all ages.

Impress Your Friends at a Casual Gathering

If you’re having friends over, finish off the dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and some crushed red pepper for heat. Present it with a side of roasted vegetables or a charcuterie board for a lovely, casual gathering that feels special.

Tips and Variations

Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper or fresh chili for a kick of spice.
Keep it Vegan: Omit the cheese or use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to mimic cheesy flavors.
Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Change Up the Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to personalize the dish.
Prep Shortcut: Mince the garlic ahead of time and store it in your fridge or freezer for a quicker cook.

Q&A Section

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh basil has a vibrant flavor that really shines in this dish. If you use dried, go for a 1:3 ratio (1 tablespoon dried for 3 tablespoons fresh).

2. How do I store the leftovers?
Keep leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, a splash of olive oil or a spoonful of water helps bring back its texture.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
While pasta can be frozen, the texture of the basil may suffer. I recommend freezing only the garlic oil base and cooking fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy.

4. What can I substitute for pasta?
Spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash offers a great low-carb alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option.

Behind The Scenes

When developing this Garlic Basil Pasta recipe, I wanted to evoke the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen. I experimented by adjusting the garlic and basil ratios to find that perfect blend, trialing various oils for an extra depth of flavor. After several rounds, I finally landed on the right balance—each taste brought me back to those cozy family dinners, solidifying my love for this dish.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Basil Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a nostalgic nod to family gatherings and simple pleasures. Whether you enjoy it on a quiet weeknight or share it with friends, it brings warmth and comfort to any table. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or a delightful glass of white wine, and you have a meal that feels truly special.

Can’t wait for you to try it! Let me know how yours turns out.