Garlic and Oil Pasta Recipe

This Garlic and Oil Pasta (Italian: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio) is a simple yet incredibly flavorful Italian classic. Made with just a few pantry staples—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes—this quick and easy dish delivers bold flavors in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a light lunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or a late-night snack, this pasta proves that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in 20 minutes
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Light, flavorful, and comforting
• Naturally vegan and dairy-free
• Easily customizable with add-ins like parsley, cheese, or lemon

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz spaghetti (or any long pasta of your choice)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh citrus twist)

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Infuse the oil: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until it becomes golden and fragrant—about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add spice: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the garlic oil. Add more pasta water as needed to help the sauce cling to the noodles.
5. Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon zest if using.
6. Serve: Serve immediately, topped with extra parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Garlic Pasta: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a citrusy boost.
• Garlic Butter Pasta: Replace half the olive oil with unsalted butter for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for extra herbal notes.

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to restore moisture.
• Do not freeze: The pasta will lose its texture and become mushy after freezing.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor and aroma.

What’s the best pasta for aglio e olio?

Spaghetti is traditional, but linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair also work well.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic on medium-low heat and watch it closely—burnt garlic will taste bitter.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Is garlic and oil pasta vegan?

Yes, as long as you skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms are great additions.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is preferred for this dish, but in a pinch, you can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.

What’s the best olive oil for this dish?

Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its rich flavor and smooth texture.

What wine pairs well with garlic and oil pasta?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the dish’s light, garlicky flavors.

Conclusion

This Garlic and Oil Pasta (Aglio e Olio) is proof that simple ingredients can create a truly delicious dish. Quick to make and packed with bold, garlicky flavor, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a minimalist Italian-inspired dinner. Whether you enjoy it plain or customize it with extra toppings, this easy pasta recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

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