Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a quick and simple Italian pasta dish made with garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. This dish is known for its bold yet balanced flavor profile, offering a perfect combination of garlicky richness and a hint of spice. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners, it’s both satisfying and easy to make with just a few basic ingredients.
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot for boiling pasta (5-6 quarts)
- 1 Large Skillet or Pan (12-inch recommended)
- 1 Pasta Strainer
- 1 Measuring Cup for pasta water
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Sharp knife
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Tongs for tossing the pasta
- 1 Garlic Press (optional, for chopping garlic faster)
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g Spaghetti
- 1/2 cup 120ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 6-8 cloves Garlic sliced thinly
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes adjust based on spice preference
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
- 1 tbsp Salt for pasta water
- 1/4 cup Reserved Pasta Water from boiling the spaghetti
- Optional: Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese for garnish, about 1/4 cup
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Infuse the Garlic and Olive Oil
- In a large skillet or pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the oil and cook gently. Stir occasionally to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn. Cook until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Red Pepper Flakes
- Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir, allowing the oil to infuse with the spice for another 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet. Toss the pasta in the garlic oil mixture, ensuring each strand is coated well. Gradually add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve the desired sauce consistency. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated and glossy.
Finish with Parsley and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (add salt or more pepper flakes). Serve immediately, garnishing with optional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Garlic: Slice the garlic thinly so it can infuse into the oil without burning. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, consider cooking it for a shorter time to prevent it from becoming too strong.
- Pasta Water: Don’t skip reserving pasta water! It’s essential for creating a silky sauce that binds to the pasta. The starch in the water helps bring everything together.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more; for a milder version, start with a smaller amount.
- Variation: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or some lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy twist. A handful of spinach or sautéed shrimp can also be added for extra protein and flavor.
- Serving Tip: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.