Servings:4

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 3 Tbs grated fresh ginger
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp hot red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 4 whole green onions, finely chopped
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Melt the butter in a medium skillet.
2. Add the grated fresh ginger, finely chopped garlic cloves, hot red pepper flakes, dried basil, and finely chopped green onions to the skillet.
3. Cook the mixture until the garlic is tender, about 4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Meanwhile, cook your choice of pasta (such as capellini, spaghettini, or linguine) according to package instructions until al dente.
5. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
6. Add the hot cooked pasta to the skillet with the butter and spice mixture.
7. Toss the pasta with the sauce until it is well coated. If the sauce seems too dry, you can add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
8. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
9. Toss gently to combine and ensure that the cheese melts slightly.
10. Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot.

Here are a few variations you can try with the given recipe:

1. Creamy Garlic Ginger Pasta: For a creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the butter and spice mixture in the skillet. Stir in the grated ginger and chopped garlic, and cook until fragrant. Then, toss the cooked pasta in the creamy garlic ginger sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
2. Vegetable Medley Pasta: Enhance the dish with a variety of colorful vegetables. Sauté diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or zucchini along with the ginger and garlic in the skillet. Once cooked, combine the vegetables with the pasta and toss well. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or feta cheese on top for added flavor.
3. Lemon Ginger Pasta: Infuse the dish with a refreshing citrus twist. Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the skillet with the ginger, garlic, and other ingredients. The lemon brightens up the flavors and adds a tangy element to the pasta. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.
4. Spicy Ginger Sesame Pasta: Increase the heat by adding a drizzle of sesame oil and a tablespoon of soy sauce to the skillet along with the ginger, garlic, and other ingredients. Stir in some Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra kick. Toss the cooked pasta in this spicy ginger sesame sauce and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
5. Protein-Packed Ginger Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Incorporate protein by adding cooked shrimp to the dish. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of ginger powder before sautéing them in the skillet with the ginger, garlic, and other ingredients. Toss the shrimp and pasta together, and garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Dried Basil: Dried basil adds an earthy and herbaceous flavor to the dish. It complements the other ingredients and adds depth to the overall taste. You can also use fresh basil leaves if preferred, as they offer a more vibrant and aromatic touch.
7. Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions contribute a mild onion flavor and a hint of freshness to the pasta. They add a subtle crunch and provide a nice contrast to the other ingredients.
8. Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a nutty and salty flavor to the dish. It adds richness and creaminess to the pasta, enhancing the overall taste and texture.