Garlic and Oil Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Name: Garlic and Oil Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti (dried); 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 6 cloves garlic (finely chopped); 1 tsp red chili flakes (or to taste); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water); 1 cup reserved pasta water

25 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A simple yet flavourful Italian pasta dish with garlic and olive oil.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that is celebrated for its simplicity and robust flavour. Originating from Naples, this dish combines just a few basic ingredients—garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes—to create a delightful meal that can be whipped up in minutes. The beauty of Aglio e Olio lies in its ability to transform ordinary pantry staples into an extraordinary culinary experience. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the day.

Instructions

Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Pro tip: Al dente means the pasta should be firm to the bite.

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2 minutes.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.

Add Chili Flakes

Stir in the red chili flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavour.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Pro tip: Toss for about 2 minutes to ensure even coating.

Finish with Cheese and Parsley

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined.

Pro tip: For a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese.

Serve

Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavour.
Finely chop garlic to infuse the oil effectively.
Cook pasta al dente for optimal texture.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is spaghetti à l'ail?

Spaghetti à l'ail is another name for Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, a simple Italian pasta dish made with garlic and olive oil.

What can I serve with garlic and oil pasta?

Garlic and oil pasta pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use other pasta types?

Yes, you can use other pasta types like linguine or fettuccine, but spaghetti is traditional.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped parsley for added freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the garlic-infused oil in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water.