Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet incredibly flavorful Italian dish made with garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. It’s a quick and delicious meal that highlights the beauty of minimal ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
✅ Base Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti 🍝
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 🛢️
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 🧄
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) 🌶️
- Salt, to taste 🧂
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
- ½ cup reserved pasta water 💧
✅ To Garnish:
- Freshly grated Parmesan (optional) 🧀
- Lemon zest (optional) 🍋
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2️⃣ Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Step 2: Infuse the Oil
3️⃣ In a large pan, heat olive oil over low heat.
4️⃣ Add sliced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant (but not burnt).
5️⃣ Stir in red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
6️⃣ Add cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss well.
7️⃣ Pour in some reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
Step 4: Final Touches
8️⃣ Stir in fresh parsley and season with salt.
9️⃣ Garnish with Parmesan and lemon zest, if desired.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
🔟 Serve immediately and enjoy this simple yet elegant Italian classic!
Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹
This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for a busy day while still feeling authentic and satisfying.
✨ Extra Tips:
👉 Add sautéed shrimp or anchovies for extra depth of flavor! 🍤🐟