Description
A classic Italian pasta dish, Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines al dente spaghetti with sautéed garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley, finished with olive oil and optional Parmesan and lemon zest for a delightful meal ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- Salt, to taste (for pasta water)
Sauce
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional toppings
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté the garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Infuse the oil: Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor into the oil.
- Toss pasta with garlic oil: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta with the garlic and chili-infused oil. Use some of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and combine everything smoothly.
- Season: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, tossing again to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Add parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley, folding it gently into the pasta.
- Optional toppings: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest over the pasta for an extra depth of flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and red pepper flakes if preferred, to enjoy the best fresh flavors.
Notes
- Be sure to slice the garlic thinly for even browning and a delicate flavor.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Reserve pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency and binding.
- Parmesan cheese and lemon zest are optional but add nice complementary flavors.
- Serve immediately as the dish tastes best fresh and warm.
