10-Minute Garlic Butter Pasta Sauce

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1/2 cup (50 g) finely grated parmesan
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water, as needed
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Chopped parsley, optional
• Finely grated lemon zest, optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve at least 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

2. 2

   Melt the butter in a wide skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds, without browning.

3. 3

   Add the drained pasta to the skillet with a small splash of pasta water and toss to coat.

4. 4

   Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the parmesan and black pepper.

5. 5

   Toss vigorously, adding more pasta water a little at a time until the pasta looks glossy and evenly coated.

6. 6

   Taste for salt and finish with parsley or lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.