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Craving a delicious yet easy-to-make pasta dish? Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is the perfect answer. This traditional Italian recipe relies on a few pantry staples—garlic, olive oil, and red chili flakes—to create a flavorful dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta:
- 400g (14oz) spaghetti
- 6–8 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it turns a light golden color, being careful not to let it burn. Stir in the red chili flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti to the pan and toss well to coat every strand in the flavorful garlic oil. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle in the chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and added color.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the pasta and, if you like, finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy the rich yet simple flavors of this classic dish!
Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Boost the Flavor: Add anchovies or capers while sautéing the garlic for a deeper umami taste.
- Make it a Meal: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic oil and pair with a fresh side salad.
- Customize the Spice: Love heat? Add extra chili flakes! Prefer mild flavors? Reduce the amount or leave them out.
- Traditional Touch: While Parmesan is optional, purists often enjoy this dish without cheese to let the garlic and olive oil shine.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a testament to the beauty of simple cooking. With just a few quality ingredients, you get a dish that’s quick, delicious, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re making dinner for yourself or impressing guests, this pasta will always be a hit.
Ready to Try It?
Gather your ingredients and give this classic Italian favorite a go! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is an easy and rewarding recipe to master. Have you tried it with a unique twist? Share your experience—we’d love to hear your take on this timeless dish!