Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity, bold garlic flavor, and satisfying heat from red pepper flakes. Made with pantry staples, it’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting yet light. This dish proves that a handful of ingredients can deliver restaurant-quality taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghettiextra virgin olive oilgarlicred pepper flakesparsley (freshly chopped)saltblack pepperparmesan cheese (optional)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add thinly sliced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and glossy, adding more pasta water as needed.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and top with grated parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2-3 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed shrimp or anchovies for extra protein and depth.

Include lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier twist.

Top with toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture.

Mix in a handful of spinach or arugula for added greens.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta.Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the noodles and dull the flavors.

FAQs

What does “Aglio e Olio” mean?

It translates to “garlic and oil” in Italian, referring to the main ingredients of the dish.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Freshly sliced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but pre-minced can work in a pinch.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust to your preference.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti.

Is cheese traditional in this recipe?

Parmesan is optional; traditional recipes usually omit cheese, but it adds a nice touch if you like.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, the base recipe is naturally vegan as long as you skip the cheese.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but it can be made ahead and gently reheated with added olive oil.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, linguine or fettuccine work well too.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook it on medium to low heat and watch it closely—it should be golden, not brown.

What oil is best?

Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the richest flavor.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a go-to dish that embodies the beauty of simple cooking. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor, elegance, and Italian soul. It’s the perfect choice when you want something quick, satisfying, and undeniably delicious.

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