Description
A classic Italian pasta dish, Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a simple yet flavorful recipe featuring spaghetti tossed with garlic-infused olive oil, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- lemon zest or juice for brightness (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until lightly golden and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Be careful not to burn it.
- Add Flavor: Add red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds. Reduce heat to low and add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to coat.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in fresh parsley and adjust the consistency with more pasta water if needed. Season with additional salt to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and a touch of lemon zest or juice if desired.
Notes
- Best enjoyed immediately.
- For extra protein, add sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg