Certainly! Here's a recipe for a classic Italian dish that's both delicious and easy to make: **Pasta Aglio e Olio**. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and full of flavor.

### **Pasta Aglio e Olio**

#### **Ingredients:**
-12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
-8 large garlic cloves thinly sliced
  teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but highly recommended)
- Juice of one lemon (optional for a zesty kick)

#### **Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
   - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Save about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2. **Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil:**
   - While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   - Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown, but be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic has a bitter taste. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

3. **Add Heat:**
   - Stir in the red pepper flakes and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds to a minute.

4. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:**
   - Add the drained pasta to the pan with the garlic and oil. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly.
   - If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

5. **Season and Garnish:**
   - Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
   - Add the chopped parsley and toss.
   - If you like, squeeze some lemon juice over the pasta for extra flavor.

6. **Serve:**
   - Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

### **Tips:**
- **Quality Ingredients:** Since this is a simple dish, the quality of the ingredients matters. Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic.
- **Customization:** Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach for added nutrition and variety.
- **Leftover Pasta Water:** This starchy water helps to bind and add body to the sauce, making it cling to the pasta better.

This recipe is a great weeknight meal option and can be made in under 20 minutes. Enjoy your delicious and easy Italian dinner!