INGREDIENTS
Serves 2
1/2 pound thin spaghetti
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter together in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until the butter stops bubbling.
3. Add the bread crumbs and the garlic. Toast the bread crumbs over medium heat about 4 minutes, stirring frequently. (Be careful not to burn the bread crumbs.)
4. Drain the pasta, toss with the bread crumb mixture, and then toss with the cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper and serve.
CRUMMY BUSINESS
Bread crumbs are a simple and effective way to add texture to a variety of dishes. Toasted bread crumbs are great on top of boiled veggies. They can also be used as a simple thickener for sauces and soups.