Follow Me On Social Media!
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil
When it comes to pasta dishes that are both simple and flavorful, few can compete with spaghetti aglio e olio. This classic Italian recipe, defined by its elegant combination of garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a go-to dinner choice in my kitchen for weeknights when I yearn for something quick yet satisfying. With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, it effortlessly transforms a few pantry staples into a delicious meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, making it perfect for college students, families, or anyone looking to whip up an impressive dish without breaking the bank. Additionally, it’s truly quick to make, often requiring less than thirty minutes from stove to table. This makes it the ideal choice for last-minute dinners or leisurely weekend meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that’s both tasty and easy to pull off?
“This dish has quickly become a family favorite! The flavors are so vibrant and fresh, yet it took me less than 20 minutes to prepare. Will definitely make it again!” – Happy Home Cook
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It
Let’s cut to the chase: making Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is a breeze! Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be doing:
- Boil your spaghetti until al dente, following the package directions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan.
- Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic turns golden.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the pan.
- Toss well to coat the pasta in that flavorful oil mixture.
- Finish with fresh parsley and salt, giving it another good toss.
- Serve hot, topped with optional grated parmesan cheese for an extra touch!
This straightforward method sets the stage for a dish that’s full of robust flavors yet simple enough to let you shine in the kitchen.
What You’ll Need
For this delightful recipe, gather the following ingredients:
🍰 30 Easy No-Bake Desserts
A delicious collection of no-bake treats you can make anytime, including:
- ✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
- 🍓 Fruity delights – creamy parfaits, lemon & mango desserts
- 🥜 Nutty & indulgent – peanut butter & pistachio bites
- 🍋 Citrus & refreshing – lemon, orange creamsicle & key lime
- 🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups
Instant digital download • Secure checkout via Gumroad
- Spaghetti
- Garlic (sliced thin)
- Olive oil
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Ingredient Notes: You can use whole garlic cloves for a milder flavor, or swap out spaghetti for your favorite pasta shape. Don’t hesitate to play around with the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference!
Step-by-Step Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently, stirring, until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Immediately toss the drained spaghetti in the skillet with the garlic oil, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and salt to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure everything is combined.
- Serve immediately, offering freshly grated parmesan cheese on the side.
Tips for Serving
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is phenomenal on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few thoughtful serving suggestions. Pair it with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Adding rustic bread to the table is also a classic choice; it’s perfect for soaking up any residual garlic oil left on your plate. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables on the side. And don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine—it’s the perfect companion!
Best Way to Store Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil
Storing leftovers is straightforward. Allow the spaghetti to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, add a touch of olive oil and a splash of water to keep it from drying out. You can also freeze cooked spaghetti, but for the best texture, it’s advisable to consume it fresh within a couple of days.
Safety Note: Always ensure that leftovers are stored promptly after cooking for food safety reasons.
Pro Chef Tips
To take your spaghetti to the next level, here’s some expert advice: always use good-quality olive oil; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor. If you prefer a more complex taste, try infusing your olive oil with herbs like thyme or rosemary before adding the garlic. Additionally, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors. And for those who love a little more texture, throw in some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled shrimp or chicken for a complete meal.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a creamy twist.
- Herbal Infusion: Replace parsley with fresh basil or add a handful of baby spinach for added greens.
Your Questions Answered
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is about 5-10 minutes, while cooking takes about 10-15 minutes, making it a quick endeavor overall.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as linguine or fettuccine.
How do I know when the garlic is done?
You want your garlic to be golden brown and fragrant, which usually takes about 2 minutes over medium heat. Watch it closely, as burnt garlic can create a bitter flavor profile.
With these tips and insights, you’ll surely impress anyone lucky enough to share a meal with you! Enjoy your cooking adventure with Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil!
Print
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Italian pasta dish made with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti
- Garlic (sliced thin)
- Olive oil
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently, stirring, until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Immediately toss the drained spaghetti in the skillet with the garlic oil, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and salt to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure everything is combined.
- Serve immediately, offering freshly grated parmesan cheese on the side.
Notes
For variations, consider adding grilled shrimp or chicken, seasonal vegetables, or a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, quick meal, Italian pasta
