If you’re craving an authentic Italian pasta dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, look no further than Spaghetti Aglio e Olio.
This dish brings together just a few simple ingredients—garlic, olive oil, and red chili flakes—to create a pasta that’s full of flavor, yet light enough for any occasion. Ready to recreate this Italian classic? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta:
- Spaghetti: 400g (about 14oz)
- Garlic: 6-8 cloves, thinly sliced
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
- Red Chili Flakes: 1 teaspoon (adjust to your heat preference)
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons of fresh, chopped
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated, for garnish
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. This adds flavor to your pasta. Once the water’s boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it until it’s al dente—firm to the bite. Check the package instructions for the exact cooking time.
Before draining the pasta, remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will be handy to loosen the pasta later if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil Sauce
While your pasta cooks, it’s time to work on the sauce. In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced garlic and sauté it. Keep a close eye on it, stirring occasionally. You want the garlic to turn golden brown, but not burnt, as it will impart a beautiful, aromatic flavor to the oil.
Once the garlic is ready, toss in the red chili flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the heat from the oil to release the full flavor of the chilies.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
Now comes the fun part—combining everything! Add the drained spaghetti directly into the pan with the garlic oil. Toss the pasta well, ensuring every strand is coated in the fragrant oil. If the pasta looks a little dry, don’t worry. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to bring it all together and make the sauce more silky.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
Once the pasta is evenly coated, season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, sprinkle in the chopped parsley for a fresh, herby kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich olive oil.
Step 5: Serve
Your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is now ready to serve! Plate the pasta, and if desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of indulgence. Serve it warm and enjoy every bite!
Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- For Extra Flavor: If you want to elevate this dish further, try adding anchovies or capers when sautéing the garlic. They add a delicious depth of flavor.
- Make It a Meal: Serve this pasta with some crusty bread on the side, perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic oil. Pair it with a simple side salad to complete your meal.
- Adjust the Heat: If you love spice, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes. For a milder version, use less or skip them altogether.
- Parmesan Optional: While Parmesan is traditional in many Italian pasta dishes, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is often served without cheese. However, a light sprinkle of freshly grated cheese won’t hurt if you’re a fan of it!
Why You’ll Love Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This dish is perfect for when you want something quick yet delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s easy to whip up a flavorful pasta that feels sophisticated but isn’t too heavy. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite extras or serve it alongside a side dish to make it your own.
Best of all, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio captures the essence of Italian cooking: simplicity, quality ingredients, and bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing a meal with friends, this dish is sure to impress!
Ready to Try It Yourself?
Why not give Spaghetti Aglio e Olio a shot today? It’s an easy, flavorful way to bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a meal that’s as authentic as it is satisfying.
Have you made this dish before? Let us know how it turned out or if you added your own twist to it! For more delicious recipes like this, make sure to follow our page and keep cooking up simple, amazing meals.
