Description
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that combines simple pantry staples—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes—resulting in a flavorful, quick, and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave authentic Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red-pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
Finishing
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the garlic oil: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red-pepper flakes, sautéing gently until the garlic is fragrant and just starts to turn golden—be careful not to let it brown as that will impart bitterness.
- Toss pasta in the sauce: Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly and create a silky sauce.
- Season and finish: Season the pasta with salt to taste. Remove the skillet from heat, then sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and toss again to combine all the flavors harmoniously.
Notes
- For added flavor and texture, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.
- Swirling in a small pat of butter at the end adds extra richness and a silky mouthfeel.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
