Imagine twirling your fork into a steaming plate of perfectly seasoned spaghetti, where golden garlic-infused olive oil clings to each strand, promising an explosion of flavor in every bite. This classic Italian dish, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, is the ultimate proof that culinary magic happens with just a few simple ingredients and a touch of technique. Whether you're a busy home cook or a pasta enthusiast, this recipe will transform your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the garlic sauce. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat to prevent burning.
- Add the thinly sliced garlic to the olive oil and cook gently, stirring frequently. The goal is to infuse the oil with garlic flavor and lightly toast the garlic until it turns a pale golden color, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the garlic oil, adjusting the amount to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce.
- Drain the pasta and immediately transfer it to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil.
- Toss the pasta thoroughly in the garlic oil, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the spaghetti evenly.
- Season with salt to taste, ensuring the pasta is well seasoned.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally offering additional red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese at the table.
Tips
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor profile.
- Slice garlic thinly and evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent burning.
- Cook garlic on medium-low heat to prevent bitterness and achieve a golden color.
- Reserve pasta water before draining - it's liquid gold for creating a silky sauce.
- Toss pasta immediately in the garlic oil to help it absorb maximum flavor.
- Fresh parsley is not optional - it adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich oil.
- Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature.
- For added luxury, consider adding a sprinkle of high-quality Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
