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Midnight Pasta

A quick and delicious pasta dish combining simple ingredients for a flavor-packed meal, perfect for late-night cravings or cozy dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients

  • 8 ounces dried pasta such as spaghetti
  • 0.5-1 ounce tin oil packed anchovies Use a whole tin for a richer flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 handful fresh parsley leaves, optional, chopped Adds freshness.
  • 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Adjust based on anchovy oil usage.
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes Plus more for serving.
  • to taste Grated Parmesan cheese for serving Serve according to preference.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 1 minute less than package instructions for al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  • Transfer the anchovies from their tin to a cutting board, reserving the oil in the tin, and roughly chop the anchovies.

Cooking

  • Heat the reserved anchovy oil plus the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. If using the oil from the tin, use 2 tablespoons of olive oil; if not, use 3 tablespoons.
  • Add the anchovies, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the anchovies dissolve and the garlic just begins to turn pale golden brown (2 to 3 minutes). Remove the skillet from heat if the pasta isn't ready yet.
  • Add the reserved cup of pasta water to the pan and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Simmer until the liquid is reduced by about half (4 to 5 minutes).
  • Add the pasta and toss continuously until the sauce is thick and glossy and the pasta is al dente (1 to 2 minutes more).
  • Remove from the heat and stir in the parsley (if using) and toss to combine. Serve garnished with grated Parmesan and additional red pepper flakes, if desired.

Notes

Be careful not to overcook the pasta. Adjust the garlic and anchovy amounts according to your taste. For more spice, add more red pepper flakes when serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Meal, Midnight Pasta, Pasta, quick dinner