Garlic and Balsamic Pasta
This is an awesome single-serving recipe that can easily be expanded for a
family setting. most spices can be found in the everyday kitchen spice
rack
2oz uncooked pasta (your choice- i prefer shells)
olive oil
balsamic vinegar
sea salt
black pepper
crushed red pepper flakes
chopped garlic (I use store bought, in a jar with water)
basil
In a medium pot, bring water to a full boil, salt if desired. Cook your
choice of pasta according to package directions (6-8 minutes for
spaghetti, 12-14 for shells). Cover the bottom of a medium saucepan with
one layer each of the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and basil. It
should look somewhat like a dry meat rub. Add about a teaspoon of the
chopped garlic to the mix and combine. If the water from the garlic does
not bind all the elements in to a paste-like texture, add a little bit of
olive oil to combine. When the pasta is about halfway through cooking,
turn the heat on the saucepan to medium, and let the spices cook until you
are ready to add them to your pasta. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Drain the pasta and transfer it to a serving bowl. Scoop your now
simmering spices from their pan and add them to the pasta bowl. Mix. Now
add, a few drops at a time, enough balsamic vinegar for your personal
taste. It is a very strong flavor, so be careful not to overdo it! If the
pasta feels like it is too dry, or if the spices are clumping and sticking
together, add a slow drizzle of olive oil until you are satisfied.
Enjoy!