Jules Clancy’s go-to simple pasta recipe is pantry cooking at it’s finest.
Text And Photo By Jules Clancy
Having a well stocked pantry is a bit like having a culinary insurance policy. No matter what life throws at you, it always feels more bearable knowing that you have something decent in the house to eat.
But of course there are times when supplies get low and that’s when I turn to this simple pasta dinner. There’s always a half used packet or two to cobble together enough for a meal. 
This is my go-to simple pasta recipe. Dressed simply with olive oil, garlic and a little rosemary from the garden (mine or my neighbors!), it’s pantry cooking at it’s finest.
Printsimple spaghetti with rosemary & garlic
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This simple pasta dish is a perfect example of pantry cooking, featuring spaghetti dressed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh rosemary for a fragrant and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 200g (1/2lb) pasta
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large sprig rosemary, leaves picked
- 1-2 cloves garlic, peeled & finely sliced
Instructions
- Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the packet directions until al dente.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the rosemary leaves and garlic slices, and fry for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a little of the cooking water. Return the pasta to the saucepan.
- Pour the garlic and rosemary oil over the pasta, tossing to coat. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved cooking water.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
Notes
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can substitute with other herbs or a pinch of dried chili for a different flavor. This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently, adding a little more olive oil if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 5
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 12
- Cholesterol: 0
Why am I scooping up a mug full of cooked pasta water?
Hi K,
Use the extra pasta water if the pasta seems to dry. Just add a little back in.
Thanks for pointing that out.
Jules
I really enjoyed the pasta, it was perfect for a late afternoon lunch with my old highschool friends. And it made the house smell amazing while it was cooking!! Great work here!
exactly joan! pasta or a can of chickpeas and you’re sorted
I’ve always said that with pasta in the cupboard, there’s always a meal on the table!
I’m going to forward this recipe to my husband. He loves pasta dishes like this.
thanks tamara
yes! it’s hard to go past simple pasta…I could eat this for breakfast too
I love simple pasta meals like this one-my favorite lunch and dinner!