Imagine this: a steaming plate of spaghetti with garlic and oil, glistening under the soft glow of candlelight. The aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to dive in. It’s a dish so simple yet so tantalizing that it feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. Mediterranean chicken dish Each strand is perfectly coated in a silky sheen of olive oil, flecks of golden garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley that whispers sweet nothings to your senses. You might also enjoy this Mediterranean Chicken dish recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
- Is Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) suitable for vegans?
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to my college days when I discovered this glorious recipe. With an empty wallet and an even emptier fridge, I stumbled upon the magic of spaghetti with garlic and oil (Aglio E Olio). It was love at first bite! The best part? It’s perfect for those late-night cravings or when you want to impress friends without breaking a sweat. lemon orzo salad Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you yearning for more. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Orzo Salad recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This spaghetti with garlic and oil is incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish
- The bold flavors of garlic and olive oil create a delightful experience for your palate
- Its visual appeal comes from the bright colors of fresh herbs against golden pasta
- This dish is versatile enough to be served as a main course or a side dish at any gathering
I remember the first time I made spaghetti with garlic and oil for my friends; they practically begged me for the recipe after their first bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Use about 400 grams of your favorite spaghetti; it holds the sauce beautifully while providing that classic al dente bite.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for 4-5 cloves, finely sliced; fresh garlic has an aromatic punch that’s irreplaceable.
- Olive Oil: A generous 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds richness; go for high quality!
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch adds a delightful kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Fresh Parsley: A handful of chopped parsley brightens the dish visually and adds freshness; don’t skip this step!
- Salt: Use kosher salt when cooking the pasta, as it enhances overall flavor; be generous but mindful.
- Pecorino Romano Cheese (optional): Grate some on top before serving for added creaminess; it’s pure decadence.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add 400 grams of spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in 1/2 cup of olive oil. Once hot, add 4-5 sliced garlic cloves and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes—watch closely so they don’t burn!
Add Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes—about half a teaspoon should do it—and stir quickly. Let their fragrant aroma fill your kitchen as they infuse into the oil.
Toss in Spaghetti: Drain your cooked spaghetti (reserve some pasta water) and add it directly into the skillet with garlic oil. Toss everything together gently until well combined; if needed, add reserved pasta water for moisture.
Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley. If you’re feeling fancy, grate some Pecorino Romano cheese over the top before serving—trust me, it’s heavenly!
With these simple steps, you’ve created a masterpiece that speaks volumes about your culinary prowess—all while keeping things effortless! Enjoy every twirl of this delightful spaghetti with garlic and oil (Aglio E Olio) as it transports you straight to Italian heaven! crispy cauliflower bites.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Cook your spaghetti in salted boiling water first, then sauté garlic in olive oil while the pasta cooks for optimal timing and flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with red pepper flakes for heat, parsley for freshness, or even grilled shrimp for protein. grilled halloumi salad Your creativity will shine through!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to revive flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use plenty of salt in your pasta water; it should taste like the sea
- Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; it helps adjust sauce consistency later
- Don’t skip on fresh herbs—they add brightness and complexity to your dish!
Cooking this dish always reminds me of family gatherings where we’d laugh, eat, and debate over whose spaghetti recipe was best—a cherished tradition that brings us all together.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with fettuccine or linguine for a different texture.
Is Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) suitable for vegans?
Yes! This dish is naturally vegan, making it perfect for plant-based diets.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio e Olio)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spaghetti with garlic and oil, also known as Aglio e Olio, is a quick and flavorful dish that embodies Italian simplicity. This recipe features perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in a fragrant blend of golden garlic and rich extra virgin olive oil, finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and optional Pecorino Romano cheese. Ideal for late-night cravings or impressing guests, this dish can be prepared in under 20 minutes, delivering a satisfying taste experience that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 400 grams spaghetti
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, finely sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Stir occasionally.
- 2. Sauté the garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown (2–3 minutes), being careful not to burn it.
- 3. Add red pepper flakes: Quickly stir in red pepper flakes and let them infuse into the oil.
- 4. Combine pasta and sauce: Drain spaghetti (reserve some pasta water) and add it to the skillet. Toss gently until well combined; add reserved pasta water if needed.
- 5. Finish with herbs: Remove from heat, mix in chopped parsley, and top with grated Pecorino Romano cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
