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Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter is a classic dish that embodies the essence of comfort food while delivering a burst of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, gatherings with friends, or even cozy date nights at home. The appeal lies in the harmonious blend of rich, buttery garlic and the al dente spaghetti, paired with fresh ingredients that elevate the dish to new culinary heights.

Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter

Discover the deliciously simple Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter, a comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish combines al dente spaghetti with sweet, caramelized roasted garlic and rich butter, creating a mouthwatering sauce that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or gatherings, it can stand alone as a vegetarian delight or pair beautifully with grilled meats. Elevate your cooking with this flavorful recipe that highlights fresh ingredients for an extraordinary dining experience.
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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 for heat)

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground 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).

      - Carefully slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the individual cloves. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the exposed cloves and wrap the garlic tightly in aluminum foil. Place on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a bowl, discarding the skins.

        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. Once done, drain the spaghetti and set aside.

            Prepare the Garlic Butter:

              - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and olive oil. Allow the butter to melt completely. Once melted, add the roasted garlic cloves into the skillet along with red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and black pepper. Stir well and sauté for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.

                Combine Pasta with Garlic Butter:

                  - Carefully add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly with the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta appears dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

                    Finish the Dish:

                      - Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss everything together until well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for balance.

                        Serve:

                          - Divide the spaghetti among serving bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an added burst of flavor and color.

                            - Prep Time: 10 minutes

                              - Total Time: 45 minutes

                                - Servings: 4 servings

                                  Enjoy this flavorful pasta dish that perfectly combines the richness of garlic and butter with the brightness of lemon and parsley!