Rustic Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Recipe: Simple Italian Magic

Crafting a classic spaghetti aglio e olio transports you straight to the bustling kitchens of naples.

Simple ingredients dance together in a delightful culinary symphony.

Olive oil becomes liquid gold when combined with fragrant garlic.

Pantry staples transform into an elegant dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Chili flakes add a subtle kick to this traditional pasta masterpiece.

Minimum effort yields maximum flavor in this beloved italian classic.

Let’s uncover the magic of this timeless recipe that will make your taste buds sing.

Why Garlic and Oil Pasta is a Classic

• This recipe celebrates minimal ingredients with maximum flavor, proving that less can truly be more in the kitchen.
• Delivers a classic Italian pasta dish that feels both homey and elegant, transforming basic pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy experience.
• Adapt the heat level with red pepper flakes and add personal touches like extra cheese or herbs, making it a versatile go-to recipe for any skill level.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Ingredients

• Spaghetti: Thin, long pasta that serves as the base of the dish.
• Olive Oil: Rich, flavorful oil that creates the sauce's foundation.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides the primary flavor profile.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle heat and subtle spiciness.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Parsley, Parmesan Cheese: Fresh herb and cheese that add brightness and depth to the final dish.

Steps for Cooking Garlic and Oil Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt.

Drop in spaghetti and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

Before draining, scoop out a bit of pasta water – this liquid gold will be your secret sauce weapon.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Garlic Base

Heat olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium flame.

Slide in delicate garlic slices and watch them transform to a gorgeous golden hue.

Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy whisper.

Keep those garlic bits dancing but prevent any burning – bitter is not beautiful!

Step 3: Marry Pasta with Garlicky Goodness

Transfer drained spaghetti directly into the skillet.

Twirl and toss until every single strand gets coated in that luscious olive oil and garlic mixture.

If things look dry, splash in some reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings lovingly to the noodles.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve with Flair

Shower the pasta with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green.

For cheese lovers, rain down some grated Parmesan.

Give one final passionate toss and slide onto plates immediately.

Your Italian-inspired masterpiece is ready to devour!

Simple Tips for Aglio e Olio

• Watch garlic closely while sautéing to achieve a perfect golden color without burning, which prevents bitter flavors and ensures a delicious sauce.
• Keep some starchy pasta water before draining to help create a silky, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to spaghetti strands.
• Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference – add more for a fiery kick or reduce for a milder flavor profile.
• Serve the dish immediately after tossing to enjoy the optimal temperature and maintain the pasta's ideal texture and sauce consistency.
• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan for added depth and richness, but feel free to skip for a lighter, vegan-friendly version.

Reheating and Saving Garlic Oil Pasta

• Store leftover spaghetti aglio e olio in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days to maintain optimal taste and texture.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water to prevent drying. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to restore moisture. Gently stir and toss for 3-4 minutes until heated evenly, preventing garlic from burning.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating using microwave or stovetop method.

Top Pairings for Garlic and Oil Pasta

• Perfectly Matched Wine Companion: Select a crisp, light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino that complements the garlic's delicate flavor without overwhelming the dish's simplicity.
• Cheese Enhancement Partner: Sprinkle authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano for a salty, sharp contrast that elevates the pasta's rich olive oil base and adds depth to each bite.
• Herbal Side Kick: Pair with a small side salad featuring fresh arugula dressed in light lemon vinaigrette to provide a peppery, acidic balance against the pasta's rich and garlicky profile.
• Protein Accent: Add grilled shrimp or sautéed white fish on the side to introduce a light protein element that harmonizes with the pasta's delicate garlic and olive oil foundation.

Garlic and Oil Pasta Twists to Try

• Gluten-Free Zucchini Noodle Version: Replace spaghetti with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that keeps the classic garlic and oil flavors intact.
• Vegan Herb Infusion: Swap Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and add roasted pine nuts for extra protein and a creamy texture while maintaining the dish's authentic taste.
• Spicy Seafood Upgrade: Incorporate sautéed shrimp or canned anchovies to transform the simple pasta into a protein-rich meal with an extra layer of maritime flavor.
• Whole Wheat Wellness Spin: Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients, keeping the traditional cooking method and core ingredients unchanged.

FAQs

• Is aglio e olio considered a traditional Italian dish?

Yes, aglio e olio is a classic Neapolitan pasta recipe that originated in Naples, Italy, known for its simple yet delicious combination of garlic, olive oil, and pasta.

• How authentic is this recipe?

This recipe follows the traditional method of preparing aglio e olio, using minimal ingredients like high-quality olive oil, fresh garlic, red pepper flakes, and parsley to create an authentic Italian experience.

• Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

Absolutely! You can control the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount and add more according to your spice preference.

• What makes this pasta dish so special?

Aglio e olio is celebrated for its simplicity and bold flavors. With just a few ingredients, it showcases how Italian cuisine transforms basic components into a delicious meal through careful technique and quality ingredients.

Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe

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4.9 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio brings classic Italian simplicity to your dinner table with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. Delicate garlic-infused olive oil coats perfectly al dente pasta, creating a comforting dish you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta:

• 400 g (14 ounces) spaghetti

Aromatics and Spices:

• 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)

Oils, Herbs, and Seasonings:

• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt (for pasta water)

Optional Garnish:

• Grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a rolling boil at high heat. Submerge spaghetti and cook until perfectly tender yet firm, approximately 8-10 minutes. Carefully extract 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
2. Place a spacious skillet on medium heat, pour olive oil generously. Carefully slide thin garlic slices into hot oil, allowing them to transform into a delicate golden hue within 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle red pepper flakes to infuse subtle warmth, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
3. Transfer drained pasta directly into the aromatic oil-garlic mixture. Gently rotate and fold the spaghetti strands, ensuring each is luxuriously coated with the fragrant sauce. If the mixture appears dry, introduce reserved pasta water, creating a silky, cohesive texture.
4. Elevate the dish with a vibrant shower of freshly chopped parsley, distributing its verdant essence throughout. Optional: Dust with finely grated Parmesan cheese for an additional layer of richness. Perform a final, delicate toss and serve piping hot, capturing the essence of authentic Italian cuisine.

Notes

• Prevent garlic from burning by watching it closely and adjusting heat, as burnt garlic creates an unpleasant bitter taste.
• Reserve pasta water is crucial for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that helps the oil and seasonings cling perfectly to the spaghetti.
• Make it vegetarian-friendly by ensuring Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet, or use nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative for a similar umami flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg