The aroma of Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: golden strands of pasta glistening with olive oil, kissed by the sharpness of garlic and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. grilled corn side dish It’s simple, yet transcendent—a dish that transforms any mundane evening into an Italian escape.
Let me take you back to that unforgettable night when I first made this dish for friends. We were gathered around the table, laughter filling the air, and as I served the Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil, their eyes lit up with anticipation. Greek chicken bowl inspiration Little did they know, this was about to become our go-to recipe for every impromptu gathering!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil boasts incredible flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough for special occasions
- Customize it with your favorite toppings or sides to suit your taste!
Friends still talk about that night; they said it tasted like love—who knew garlic could work such magic? For more inspiration, check out this honey balsamic Brussels sprouts recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Opt for high-quality dried spaghetti; it holds up beautifully against the sauce.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; avoid those sprouting green bits.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A good quality oil adds richness and depth—don’t skimp here!
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; these add a delightful kick.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning; use coarse sea salt for the best results.
- Pecorino Romano Cheese (optional): Grate fresh cheese over the top for a savory finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté Garlic: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown—watch closely to prevent burning!
Add Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in red pepper flakes into the garlic-infused oil. This will wake up your taste buds! Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds.
Toss Pasta with Sauce: Drain your spaghetti but reserve some pasta water. Add drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing quickly to coat every strand. For more inspiration, check out this one pan chicken with buttered noodles recipe.
Adjust Consistency: If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. The oil should cling nicely to each noodle.
Garnish and Serve!: Remove from heat, toss in fresh parsley and grated Pecorino Romano if using. Plate it up immediately while it’s hot!
And there you have it—deliciously simple Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil! Enjoy every bite while daydreaming of sun-soaked Italian vistas. delicious garlic sauce.
You Must Know
- Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is a simple yet flavorful dish
- Mastering the balance of garlic and olive oil creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen and warms your heart
- This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling salted water for the spaghetti. While it’s cooking, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until golden, then toss in the drained pasta for a beautiful marriage of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Add red pepper flakes for heat, parsley for freshness, or even grated cheese for indulgence. Each addition brings its unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of olive oil to revive its luscious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly cooked spaghetti, follow package instructions closely for timing
- Use high-quality olive oil since it significantly impacts flavor
- Always salt your pasta water generously; it’s your chance to season the noodles thoroughly
Sometimes I whip up Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil when I’m short on time, and it never fails to impress family and friends alike; they always ask for seconds!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for Aglio E Olio?
Spaghetti is traditional, but you can use linguine or fettuccine as well.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil. Mediterranean chicken recipe.
How do I prevent garlic from burning?
Cook garlic over low heat and watch it closely; burnt garlic tastes bitter and unpleasant.
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is a quick yet indulgent dish that elevates any meal. This classic Italian recipe features al dente spaghetti tossed in a fragrant blend of extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta dish is customizable and sure to impress. With just a few ingredients, you can create a culinary experience that transports you to the heart of Italy.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in red pepper flakes to the garlic-infused oil and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds.
- Drain the spaghetti, reserving some pasta water. Toss the drained spaghetti in the skillet with the sauce.
- Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and toss with fresh parsley and grated Pecorino, if using. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup cooked spaghetti (about 200g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: - For added protein, consider grilled chicken or shrimp. - Customize with vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. - To prevent garlic from burning, keep the heat low and watch closely.
