Classic Italian Pasta e Olio

Name: Classic Italian Pasta e Olio
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti (or your choice of pasta); 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (thinly sliced); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); to taste salt and black pepper

20 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A simple yet delicious dish with garlic, olive oil, and pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Prep

5 min

Cook

15 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Pasta e olio, also known as spaghetti aglio e olio, is a traditional Italian dish that highlights the beauty of simplicity. With just a few ingredients, this dish transforms into a delightful meal that's both comforting and indulgent. This version of pasta e olio is perfect for those who appreciate the authentic taste of Italian cuisine. The combination of garlic and olive oil coats the pasta beautifully, creating a silky texture that is hard to resist. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you're craving something quick yet satisfying, this dish can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. It's a go-to recipe for anyone who loves the rich, aromatic flavours of garlic and olive oil.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

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

Pro tip: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.

Heat the olive oil

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Pro tip: Use a wide pan to allow for even cooking of the garlic.

Cook the garlic

Add the sliced garlic to the oil and cook until golden, about 2 minutes. Do not let it brown.

Pro tip: Watch closely to prevent the garlic from burning.

Add red pepper flakes

Stir in the red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for 30 seconds.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the garlic oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.

Pro tip: Use tongs to effectively mix the pasta with the sauce.

Season and serve

Season with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro tip: Serve immediately for the best flavour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavour.
Don't overcook the garlic; it should be golden, not brown.
Reserve pasta water for a silkier sauce.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pasta e olio?

Pasta e olio is a traditional Italian dish made with pasta, olive oil, and garlic, often garnished with parsley and red pepper flakes.

How many calories are in pasta e olio?

A typical serving of pasta e olio contains about 320 calories.

Can I add cheese to pasta e olio?

Yes, you can add grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for extra flavour, though it's not traditional.

How can I make pasta e olio spicier?

To make it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

What type of pasta is best for pasta e olio?

Spaghetti is traditionally used, but you can also use linguine or fettuccine.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic over medium heat and monitor closely to ensure it turns golden rather than brown, stirring constantly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your pasta e olio with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad topped with balsamic vinaigrette. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to restore its creamy texture.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

Protein

10g

Fat

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