There’s something magical about the aroma of Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) wafting through the house. The simplicity of this dish is deceiving; one whiff of sautéed garlic mingling with olive oil sends a wave of warmth and nostalgia. It’s like being wrapped in a cozy blanket while sitting by a crackling fire, except this fire is in your kitchen, and the blanket is made of delicious carbs.
This dish holds a special place in my heart. I vividly remember my college days when money was tight, but my cravings were mighty. Aglio E Olio became my trusty sidekick, saving me from culinary despair. I could whip it up faster than you could say “I’m starving,” making it the perfect late-night study snack. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a romantic date night, this pasta dish never fails to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Preparing this delightful Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is super easy and requires only a handful of ingredients
- The flavor bursts with each bite, thanks to the fragrant garlic and rich olive oil
- Visually appealing, it brings an elegant touch to any table setting without breaking the bank
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various proteins or veggies for a complete meal!
Ingredients for Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Choose high-quality spaghetti for the best texture; it will hold onto the sauce like a best friend.
- Fresh Garlic: Use at least four cloves; they should be plump and fragrant for maximum flavor.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides richness; don’t skimp on this liquid gold!
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for heat; adjust to your spice tolerance—no judgment here!
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness; chop finely for even distribution.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning your pasta water; use kosher salt for better control.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Boil Your Pasta
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt—think ocean-level salty—to enhance your spaghetti’s flavor as it cooks.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Add your spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around eight to ten minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Oil
While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic (the more, the merrier!) and sauté until golden brown but not burnt—this is key!
Step 4: Add Spice
Once your garlic turns golden, sprinkle in red pepper flakes to taste. Let them bloom in the oil for just about thirty seconds, releasing their flavors into that heavenly mixture.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain your cooked spaghetti but reserve about half a cup of pasta water. Toss your hot spaghetti into the skillet with garlic oil, mixing well. If things seem dry, add that reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley for an aromatic finish. Transfer your beautiful creation onto plates or bowls—feel free to dress it up with additional parsley or grated cheese if you’re feeling fancy!
Serve immediately while it’s warm, inviting everyone around you to enjoy this Italian classic bursting with flavor!
You Must Know
- Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is a simple yet flavorful dish that requires minimal ingredients
- This classic Italian recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party
- Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until al dente. While that’s happening, heat olive oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Combine everything just before serving for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil! Add red pepper flakes for heat, toss in some fresh parsley for color, or even throw in sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers to enhance the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or microwave until heated through, ensuring it stays delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor; cheap oils can ruin this simple dish
- Always taste your pasta water; it should be salty enough to season your noodles perfectly
- When adding garlic, keep an eye on it; burnt garlic tastes bitter and ruins your sauce
Sometimes I whip up Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil when I’m feeling lazy but want something comforting. I still remember my friend’s face when he took that first bite—pure bliss!
FAQs:
What is Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)?
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil, or Aglio E Olio, is a classic Italian pasta dish that highlights simple ingredients. It typically consists of spaghetti tossed with sautéed garlic in olive oil, finished with red pepper flakes and fresh parsley. This dish is beloved for its ease of preparation and rich flavors. It’s a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time.
How long does it take to make Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil?
Preparing Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need around 10 minutes to boil the pasta, while sautéing the garlic in oil takes an additional 5 minutes. creamy garlic pasta with steak Combining everything together can be done in another 5 minutes. This quick recipe makes it ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I customize my Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is its versatility. You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. For protein, consider tossing in shrimp or grilled chicken. shrimp in garlic butter sauce If you want more depth of flavor, throw in some lemon zest or Parmesan cheese as a finishing touch. chicken quesadilla recipe Feel free to get creative while keeping the essence of this classic dish intact. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter steak bites recipe.
What should I serve with Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil?
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. A simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the dish nicely. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up any leftover oil and garlic. For those who enjoy seafood, grilled shrimp or calamari would enhance your dining experience beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this honey garlic butter carrots recipe.
Conclusion for Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio):
In conclusion, Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is a delightful dish that combines simplicity and flavor effortlessly. Its quick preparation makes it an excellent choice for any meal occasion. By using high-quality ingredients like fresh garlic and extra virgin olive oil, you can elevate this classic recipe into a satisfying culinary experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients to make it your own while enjoying this timeless Italian favorite!
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is a classic Italian dish that beautifully marries simplicity and flavor. This quick and easy recipe features perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed with sautéed garlic in rich olive oil, enhanced by a kick of red pepper flakes. Finished with fresh parsley, this dish is not only comforting but also elegant enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or an intimate dinner, Aglio E Olio is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp kosher salt (for pasta water)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Drain the spaghetti, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Toss the spaghetti in the skillet with the garlic oil mixture, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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