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Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Close-up of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio in a white bowl, garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes.

A simple and classic Italian pasta dish featuring garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 68 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Do not let the garlic burn.
  3. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Toss well to coat the pasta.
  4. Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss continuously until a light sauce forms and coats the spaghetti. Add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can use more garlic.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred level of heat.
  • Ensure the garlic cooks slowly to infuse the oil without burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, garlic pasta, olive oil pasta, simple pasta, Italian pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta