Name: Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 4 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt (to taste)

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There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, mingling with the warmth of freshly cooked spaghetti. Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is not just a dish; it’s an orchestra of flavors that plays a symphony in your mouth, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Black Bean and Corn Pasta Salad refreshing Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Picture this: you’re twirling strands of perfectly al dente pasta around your fork, and the garlicky goodness dances on your taste buds, inviting you to take another bite. crispy potato salad side.

As I recall my first attempt at making Spaghetti Aglio E Olio, I can’t help but chuckle. It was a late-night culinary adventure fueled by hunger and a questionable amount of confidence. My friends gathered around as I concocted this simple yet elegant dish, and let’s just say their reactions ranged from skepticism to delightful surprise. Spring Orzo with Roasted Vegetables The best part? This dish pairs wonderfully with laughter and stories shared over dinner, making every occasion feel special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This spaghetti dish is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests
Its bold garlic flavor with a hint of heat makes it utterly addictive
Visually appealing with a sprinkle of parsley, it brightens any dinner table
Versatile enough to add your favorite proteins or veggies for a personalized twist

I remember the first time I served this to my family; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: Choose high-quality dried spaghetti for the best texture; it holds onto the sauce beautifully.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; fresh garlic elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Go for the good stuff; it enhances flavor and adds richness.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance; these little flakes pack a punch!
Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley gives color and freshness; it’s like confetti on your plate.
Salt: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the final dish; don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant—about 2 minutes—being careful not to burn it.

Add Red Pepper Flakes: Toss in red pepper flakes during the last minute of sautéing garlic. This will infuse the oil with heat and flavor—your kitchen will start smelling divine! For more inspiration, check out this chicken tenders with garlic parmesan recipe.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once spaghetti is cooked, reserve some pasta water before draining. Add drained pasta directly into the skillet with garlic oil. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve a silky sauce.

Add Parsley and Seasoning: Off heat, mix in chopped parsley and adjust salt as needed. Give everything one last toss to ensure all those tasty bits are well combined.

Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your Spaghetti Aglio E Olio immediately while it’s hot. Serve with extra parsley on top for garnish and perhaps some grated Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy! For more inspiration, check out this lemon brownies recipe.

This easy-to-make classic will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!

You Must Know

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a delightful dish bursting with flavor, simplicity, and speed
With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress anyone
The aroma of garlic sautéing in olive oil will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling salted water for the spaghetti while you prepare your garlic-infused oil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then toss it in the pan with the oil and garlic for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Spaghetti Aglio E Olio with extras like crushed red pepper flakes or fresh parsley. You can also switch up the pasta type or add veggies for some color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Spaghetti Aglio E Olio in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of olive oil to revive its flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the dish’s flavors significantly
Be cautious not to burn the garlic; it should be golden, not brown
Freshly grated Parmesan can elevate your dish if desired, adding richness and depth

Cooking Spaghetti Aglio E Olio reminds me of my college days when a simple dinner turned into a culinary showdown with friends over who could make it best.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta for Spaghetti Aglio E Olio?

Yes, any pasta shape works well; just adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I make my Spaghetti Aglio E Olio spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for that extra kick.

What wine pairs best with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.