Description
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple and flavorful Italian pasta dish made with just garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti, finished with a touch of red pepper flakes and parsley for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and just golden, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet along with a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat.
- Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt to taste.
- Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Reserve pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
- Add sautéed shrimp or chicken for a heartier version.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg