Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that's as simple as it is delicious? Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Garlic is a classic Italian favorite that comes together in just 25 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms humble spaghetti into a flavorful masterpiece that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this quick and easy dish promises to impress. Dive into this article to discover how to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 200g of spaghetti, 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 cloves of garlic sliced thinly, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, salt to taste, fresh parsley for garnish, and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and let it warm up for about a minute.
- Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can become bitter.
- Once the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds to infuse the oil with heat.
- When the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly in the oil and garlic mixture.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season the spaghetti with salt to taste and toss in the chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
- Divide the spaghetti into two serving plates. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of richness.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips
- Use Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of the olive oil is crucial in this dish, so opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while it’s sautéing. You want it to be fragrant and lightly golden, but not browned, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be a game-changer for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
- Experiment with Heat: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more red pepper flakes to suit your taste. You can also add other ingredients like sautéed vegetables or cooked shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a delightful creaminess that elevates the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 407kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
