Spaghetti recipes have a knack for bringing comfort to the table, and this Classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is no exception. It’s a quick and easy dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came straight from an Italian trattoria.
Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, mingling with the heat of red pepper flakes, and the satisfying bite of al dente spaghetti. This dish is proof that sometimes, less is more. Perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party, this spaghetti recipe is sure to impress.
An Easy and Flavorful Spaghetti Recipe
This spaghetti aglio e olio is a light yet flavorful dish made with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. It’s a quick meal that captures the essence of Italian cooking, offering a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors.
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until it turns golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the garlic oil. If the pasta appears dry, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 60g