Fennel Seed Garlic Pasta (American-Italian Style)
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
🧾 Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp true organic fennel seeds, lightly crushed
- 4 true organic cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp true organic ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Optional add-ins:
- grilled chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes
👩🍳 Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Bloom the Fennel Seeds:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add fennel seeds and gently toast for 30–40 seconds until fragrant.
Build the Sauce:
Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until garlic is lightly golden (do not burn). Stir in black pepper.
Combine:
Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce.
Finish & Serve:
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and fresh herbs. Adjust salt and serve hot.
💡 Variations:
- Creamy Version: Add ¼ cup heavy cream
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach or zucchini
- Protein: Italian sausage pairs perfectly with fennel seed flavor
