This is a classic and easy Italian Spaghetti Aglio e Olio (Garlic & Oil Pasta) – a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s ready in 15 minutes!
📸 Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
(Garlic, Chili, and Olive Oil Pasta)
Ingredients (serves 2):
- 200g spaghetti (or any long pasta)
- 4-5 cloves garlic – thinly sliced
- 1-2 red chili flakes (or 1 fresh red chili, sliced)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh parsley – finely chopped
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
- Optional: Parmigiano-Reggiano or lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (check package time). Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
2️⃣ Infuse oil: In a large pan, heat olive oil on low. Add garlic and chili flakes, sauté gently until garlic is golden (do not burn!).
3️⃣ Combine: Add drained pasta to the pan with a splash of pasta water. Toss well to emulsify the sauce.
4️⃣ Finish: Turn off heat, mix in parsley, and season with salt if needed.
5️⃣ Serve: Plate immediately, garnished with cheese or lemon zest if desired.
Serving Suggestion:
🍷 Pair with a crisp white wine (Pinot Grigio) and a side of arugula salad.
Tips:
- No cheese? Traditional versions skip it, but it’s optional.
- Extra richness? Add a tbsp of butter at the end.