Description
Spaghetti aglio e olio brings classic Italian simplicity to pasta lovers’ tables. Garlic, olive oil, and parsley create a minimalist masterpiece that celebrates Naples’ culinary heritage with bold, clean flavors you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Boiling Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a vigorous boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, following package instructions. Carefully reserve a cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
- Aromatic Foundation: Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Gently sauté minced garlic until it transforms into a delicate golden color, being cautious to prevent burning. Introduce red pepper flakes, allowing them to infuse the oil with a subtle heat and vibrant flavor.
- Pasta Integration: Add drained spaghetti to the fragrant skillet, incorporating reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta thoroughly, ensuring each strand is elegantly coated with the garlicky, spicy oil. Adjust liquid to create a luxurious, silky sauce that embraces the noodles.
- Final Flourish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, season with salt and black pepper. For an extra layer of decadence, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and a zesty squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately to preserve the dish’s temperature and dynamic flavors.
Notes
- Control Garlic Browning: Watch carefully to prevent burning, as garlic turns bitter when scorched; aim for a gentle golden color that releases sweet, nutty flavors without darkening.
- Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: Starchy cooking liquid is crucial for creating a silky sauce; save about 1/2 cup to help bind ingredients and provide smooth, glossy texture to the pasta.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize red pepper flakes based on heat tolerance; start with a small pinch and gradually increase for personalized flavor intensity without overwhelming the dish.
- Balance Olive Oil Quality: Use extra-virgin olive oil for authentic taste; its robust flavor significantly impacts the recipe’s overall depth and authenticity of traditional Italian preparation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 563
- Sugar: 0.4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 73 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg