Elevate your weeknight dinner game with Pasta with Garlic and Oil (Aglio e Olio)—a classic Italian recipe that’s as simple as it is irresistible. Made with pantry staples like spaghetti, extra virgin olive oil, and garlic, this dish is a celebration of bold, natural flavors. A hint of red chili flakes adds a gentle heat, while fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese provide the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 25 minutes, the secret to its silky texture lies in emulsifying the olive oil with reserved pasta water, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every strand. Whether you're searching for a vegetarian-friendly main or a quick yet elegant dinner, this authentic aglio e olio recipe is destined to become a go-to favorite!
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves.
In a large skillet or a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm but not smoking, add the sliced garlic.
Cook the garlic gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add the red chili flakes to the skillet and stir for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Reduce the heat to low and carefully add a small amount of the reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup) to the skillet. Stir to combine, creating an emulsion with the oil.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat it in the garlic oil mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time.
Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serving size | (534.4g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1307.4 |
Total Fat 70.0g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 15.3g | 0% |
Cholesterol 35.7mg | 0% |
Sodium 2929.1mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 133.3g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 8.9g | 0% |
Total Sugars 3.9g | |
Protein 39.2g | 0% |
Vitamin D 8.6IU | 0% |
Calcium 574.5mg | 0% |
Iron 8.3mg | 0% |
Potassium 392.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories