Pasta Aglio e Olio

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta Aglio e Olio is a quick and straightforward dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. The garlic-infused olive oil creates a fragrant, savory sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, while the chili flakes add a subtle heat. It’s simple but incredibly flavorful, making it an ideal meal for those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Plus, it’s easy to customize with extra ingredients like parsley, Parmesan, or other seasonings.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the pasta.

2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

3. Add the sliced garlic to the pan and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

4. Add the red pepper flakes to the garlic oil and stir for about 30 seconds.

5. Add the drained pasta to the pan with the garlic oil. Toss the pasta to coat in the oil and garlic mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

7. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

8. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Top with grilled shrimp, chicken, or even crispy pancetta for extra protein.

• Add vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.

• Make it spicier: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

• Parmesan alternative: If you want a dairy-free version, you can skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or pasta water to revive the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Spaghetti or linguine are the traditional choices, but feel free to experiment.

2. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Make sure to cook the garlic on medium heat and watch it closely. Stir regularly and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns golden.

3. Can I use pre-minced garlic?

While fresh garlic is preferred for the best flavor, you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch. Just be sure to use a smaller amount since jarred garlic tends to be more potent.

4. Is Pasta Aglio e Olio vegan?

Yes, Pasta Aglio e Olio is naturally vegan when made without Parmesan cheese.

5. Can I add other herbs to this dish?

Yes, basil, oregano, or thyme would make wonderful additions to the dish. Fresh parsley is the most common garnish, but you can experiment with other herbs as well.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make Pasta Aglio e Olio gluten-free.

7. Can I make Pasta Aglio e Olio ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta and toss it with the oil.

8. What if I don’t have red pepper flakes?

You can use fresh chili or chili powder as an alternative for heat. Adjust to taste.

9. Can I make this dish without olive oil?

Olive oil is a key ingredient for flavor and texture in this recipe. Substituting it with another oil will change the taste, but you can try using butter for a richer alternative.

10. How do I know when the garlic is done?

The garlic should turn golden brown and become fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as it can quickly become bitter.

Conclusion

Pasta Aglio e Olio is a deliciously simple dish that showcases the magic of basic ingredients coming together to create something truly satisfying. With its garlic-infused olive oil sauce and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, it’s the perfect quick meal for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as-is or with your favorite additions, this classic Italian pasta dish is sure to please.

Pasta Aglio e Olio

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Pasta Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish made with spaghetti or linguine, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, offering a flavorful yet simple meal. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a comforting, flavorful pasta in under 30 minutes.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 15min
• Total Time: 25min
• Yield: 4servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéed, Boiled
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

12 ounces spaghetti or linguine

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Instructions

• Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the pasta.

• Make the garlic oil: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

• Add the spice: Add the red pepper flakes to the garlic oil and stir for about 30 seconds.

• Toss the pasta: Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic oil mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

• Season and garnish: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

• Add protein: Top with grilled shrimp, chicken, or crispy pancetta for extra protein.

• Add vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.

• Spicy version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

• Dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative