Like + gerund vs. like + infinitive

[Kaiman]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #50 "Elementary Grammar Questions", question 8

I really like ......... spaghetti.

(a) of eat
(b) to eat
(c) eat
(d) ate

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #50 "Elementary Grammar Questions", answer 8

I really like to eat spaghetti.

Correct answer: (b) to eat
_________________________

like + eating?

Kaiman

[Yankee]

Hi Kaiman

"I really like to eat spaghetti." is the correct sentence in the test. You can also say "I really like eating spaghetti."

The verb like can be followed by the 'to infinitive' or the '-ing form'. In this sentence there wouldn't be any difference in meaning.

Amy
_________________
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Azahara]

Hello!
I still have not clear the difference in meaning between these two structures. I hear a native speaker that in case of doubt it´s better to use like+to. He also said the difference was light but I couldn´t understand his explanation.
Could someone give me an explanation? Thank you in advance.