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Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio e Olio)
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio e Olio) is iconic for a reason. It’s simple yet flavorful, transforming basic ingredients into a dish that feels gourmet. I remember the first time I made it—it was a chilly evening, and all I wanted was comfort food that wouldn’t take hours to prepare. This dish becomes an instant classic in any kitchen, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or when you want to impress guests without all the fuss.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes Spaghetti Aglio e Olio so special? For starters, it’s a one-pan wonder. Minimal cleanup combined with maximum flavor? Sign me up! The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; it requires just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—great for a cozy dinner alone or as a side for a larger Italian feast. It’s also budget-friendly, making it the go-to choice for students or anyone looking to stretch their grocery dollar.
"The first time I made Aglio e Olio, I was hooked! It’s amazing how something so simple can taste so good." — Sarah M.
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Before diving into the ingredients, let’s lay out the steps. This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it an ideal choice even on the busiest of nights. You’ll start by cooking your spaghetti to al dente perfection, then sautéing garlic to golden goodness in olive oil. Toss everything together, and it’s ready to serve! It’s as easy as that. Let’s get into the specifics.
Everything You Need for This Recipe
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need:
- Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice.
- Garlic: Sliced or minced for that aromatic kick.
- Olive Oil: The heart of the dish, adding richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat. Adjust to your taste!
- Parsley: Chopped for fresh flavor and garnish.
- Salt: To elevate all those wonderful flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): A cheesy touch to finish off the dish.
Feel free to swap out the parsley for another fresh herb if you’re in the mood for experimentation!
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Step-by-Step Directions
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Cook the spaghetti: Boil a pot of salted water and follow the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Heat the oil: In a large skillet set over medium heat, pour in the olive oil.
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Sauté garlic: Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until the garlic turns golden, taking care not to burn it.
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Combine with spaghetti: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, stirring to coat every strand in the fragrant garlic oil.
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Season: Add salt to taste, and sprinkle in the chopped parsley for freshness.
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Serve: Enjoy your warm dish, adding grated parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Tips for Serving
Looking for ways to elevate your dining experience? Aglio e Olio shines brightly when paired with crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for crunch. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light protein, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to round out the meal. A crisp white wine or sparkling water makes the perfect beverage pairing, enhancing the flavors of the pasta.
Best Way to Store Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil
If you find yourself with leftover spaghetti, storing it is straightforward! Place any remaining Aglio e Olio in an airtight container in the fridge. It can stay fresh for 3-4 days. When reheating, a splash of olive oil can help restore its original flavor and texture. Avoid freezing as the texture of the pasta can change when thawed, making it less enjoyable.
Expert Advice
To take your Aglio e Olio to new heights, consider these pro tips:
- Use high-quality olive oil. It makes a difference in taste!
- Don’t skip the parsley; it adds a fresh note that balances the dish beautifully.
- For a unique twist, try adding grated lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Creative Twists
Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations on the classic:
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier option.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate cherry tomatoes or spinach for additional color and nutrients.
- Herb Variations: Swap parsley for basil or oregano for a fresh spin.
Common Questions
Q: How long does it take to prepare this dish?
A: You’ll have this delectable meal ready in about 20 minutes!
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to try linguine, fettuccine, or even zoodles for a low-carb version.
Q: How should leftovers be reheated?
A: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a drizzle of olive oil to help rejuvenate the flavors and prevent drying out.
Now that you’re equipped with all the juicy details of preparing Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, it’s time to hit the kitchen and enjoy this fantastic dish!
Print
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple yet flavorful dish that transforms basic ingredients into a gourmet meal, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz Spaghetti
- 4 cloves Garlic, sliced
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1/4 cup Parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Parmesan Cheese (optional), for serving
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil.
- Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic turns golden without burning.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, stirring to coat in the garlic oil.
- Add salt to taste, and sprinkle in chopped parsley.
- Serve warm, topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a twist, add shrimp or grilled chicken for protein, or incorporate cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: spaghetti, aglio e olio, pasta, quick meal, italian cuisine
