Dinner time can be a busy hour, and you might be looking for simple ideas that don’t take all evening to prepare. This article provides a list of 24 simple dinner ideas that you can easily make at home. These recipes are quick, delicious, and perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a good meal without too much hassle.
Why Make This Recipe
These simple dinner ideas are perfect for weekdays when you want to prepare a tasty meal quickly. They require easily available ingredients and straightforward steps, making cooking less stressful. Plus, they offer a variety of flavors and options so everyone can find something they enjoy!
How to Make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Ingredients:
- 400g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Boil water in a pot and add salt.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic turns golden (about 2 minutes).
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the pan with the garlic oil.
- Toss everything together well. Add salt if needed.
- Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Serve the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio hot on a plate. You can add a side salad or garlic bread for a fuller meal. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but is also delicious as leftovers.
How to Store Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Use high-quality olive oil for best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic; burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Variation
You can add cooked shrimp or chicken for protein. For a vegetarian option, toss in some spinach or other greens at the end of cooking.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Yes! The dish is still tasty without cheese and can be enjoyed as a vegan meal.
2. What if I can’t find spaghetti?
You can use other types of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, as they work well too.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can make a larger batch and enjoy it over a few days as part of your meal prep.
Now you have a straightforward approach to making Spaghetti Aglio e Olio along with ideas for storage, serving, and fun variations. Enjoy your dinner!
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup olive oil Use high-quality for better flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust to suit spice preference.
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Can be omitted for a vegan meal.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil water in a pot and add salt.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
Cooking
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic turns golden (about 2 minutes).
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the pan with the garlic oil.
- Toss everything together well. Add salt if needed.
Serving
- Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.