Black Garlic Pasta is a delicious and unique dish that incorporates the rich, sweet, and umami flavor of black garlic into a classic pasta recipe. Black garlic is fermented garlic that has a soft, almost jelly-like texture and a complex flavor profile, making it an excellent addition to pasta. This recipe combines black garlic with simple ingredients to create a gourmet meal that is both sophisticated and easy to prepare.
Black Garlic Pasta Recipe Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves black garlic, minced
- 3 cloves regular garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
Black Garlic Pasta Recipe Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Grater
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Detailed Instructions Of Black Garlic Pasta Recipe:
1.Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2.Prepare the Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced regular garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the minced black garlic and cook for another minute, stirring continuously.
3.Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water.
- Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce.
4.Finish the Dish:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Toss everything together until well combined and the cheese is melted.
5.Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
What to Serve with Black Garlic Pasta?
Black Garlic Pasta pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some great options include:
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the pasta well.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a nice touch.
What Does Black Garlic Pasta Taste Like?
Black Garlic Pasta has a rich, sweet, and umami flavor from the black garlic. The black garlic gives the dish a deep, almost balsamic-like taste that is complemented by the fresh garlic, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of flavors creates a complex and satisfying dish that is both comforting and gourmet.
How Healthy is This Recipe?
Black Garlic Pasta can be a healthy dish when enjoyed in moderation. Here’s why:
- Low in Fat: Uses olive oil and minimal cheese.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Black garlic is packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
- High in Fiber: Pasta and tomatoes provide dietary fiber.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Recipe:
1.Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality black garlic and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
2.Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve pasta water; it helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
3.Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning as needed to balance the sweetness of black garlic with salt and pepper.
4.Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil to add a bright, fresh note to the dish.
Black Garlic Pasta Recipe Variations:
- Vegetarian Black Garlic Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
- Chicken Black Garlic Pasta: Add grilled chicken slices for more protein.
- Spicy Black Garlic Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Conclusion:
Black Garlic Pasta is a delightful and sophisticated dish that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Its unique flavor profile, thanks to the black garlic, makes it a standout dish that’s sure to impress. Easy to make and full of flavor, this pasta recipe is a must-try for any food lover.
5 FAQs About Black Garlic Pasta
1.Can I use regular garlic instead of black garlic?
- While you can, the dish won’t have the same unique flavor. Black garlic has a distinct, sweet, and umami taste.
2.Where can I find black garlic?
- Black garlic is available at specialty grocery stores, health food stores, or online.
3.Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when needed.
4.Is black garlic pasta suitable for vegans?
- To make it vegan, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
5.How should I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories320
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
12g
19%
- Saturated Fat 3g 15%
- Cholesterol 9mg 3%
- Sodium 220mg 10%
- Total Carbohydrate
45g
15%
- Dietary Fiber 3g 12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 9g 18%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Black Garlic Pasta Recipe
Course: Side Dishes4
servings10
minutes15
minutes300
kcalIngredients
– 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 cloves black garlic, minced
– 3 cloves regular garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced regular garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the minced black garlic and cook for another minute, stirring continuously.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water.
- Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Toss everything together until well combined and the cheese is melted.
- Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.