Garlic Pasta

This recipe served three as a side dish.  Its easy to adjust to serve your crowd by just increasing quantities.  

1/3 pound dried pasta of your choice

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

3-4 cloves garlic, smashed

salt and pepper to taste

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta as directed on package.

While pasta is cooking, heat oil and melt better in a small skillet over a low heat.  Add smashed garlic cloves and cook gently to infuse oil/butter mixture with garlic flavor.  Allow to cook slowly for entire time pasta is cooking - allowing garlic to slightly brown.  Swirl pan occasionally to mix.  Remove smashed garlic.  

Drain pasta and mix with infused oil.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  

Serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese.  If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley, basil or oregano.