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Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil
Short and simple yet bursting with flavor, Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is a classic Italian dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is easy to prepare. This beloved recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. With just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, this dish embodies the beauty of Italian cooking: simple, flavorful, and comforting. Plus, the aroma of garlic sautéing in olive oil is enough to make your mouth water!
Why You’ll Love Making It
One of the best things about Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is just how quick and easy it is. You can have a gourmet dish on the table in less than 30 minutes, making it a prime choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. This recipe is not only budget-friendly, but it also appeals to a wide range of taste buds, including kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite.
"This dish is my go-to when I need a quick, satisfying meal. It’s incredible how such simple ingredients can create something so delicious!" – Happy Home Cook
Preparing Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil
Ready to immerse yourself in the art of making this delicious pasta? Here’s a quick roadmap: we’ll start by boiling the spaghetti, then sautéing garlic and red pepper flakes to create that addictive aromatic base. Finally, we’ll bring it all together with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and, if you’re feeling indulgent, some grated parmesan. Let’s dive into the steps!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- Olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
- Garlic (minced)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Feel free to substitute whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist or dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Boil the Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Prepare the Oil: While the pasta cooks, heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the hot oil. Sauté until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Combine Pasta and Oil: When the spaghetti is done, reserve a cup of pasta water. Drain the rest, then add the spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss well to coat the strands in the flavored oil. If it seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
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Finish with Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt to taste.
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Serve: Plate the spaghetti hot, adding grated parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Tips for Serving
This dish shines on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few creative touches. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, or pair it with garlic bread for a comforting Italian feast. For added richness, top with a poached egg or some sautéed shrimp for a protein boost. A glass of chilled white wine would round off the meal beautifully!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Store your Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to keep it from drying out. Keep in mind that because it contains oil and garlic, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Expert Advice
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Timing is Key: Ensure your pasta is cooked just to al dente. It will continue to cook a bit when combined with the hot oil.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
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Quality Ingredients Matter: Using high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic can make a significant difference in the final flavor.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to experiment! For a zesty kick, add lemon zest or juice. If you love seafood, toss in cooked shrimp or scallops. For a heartier dish, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. And for those looking for a vegan option, simply skip the parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
Common Questions
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How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Most people can whip this up in just 20-30 minutes from start to finish. -
Can I substitute the pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape works, including gluten-free varieties. -
How do I store leftovers safely?
Ensure that the pasta is cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within three days for the best quality.
This simple yet flavorful Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a magnificent meal. Happy cooking!
Print
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Italian dish that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- Olive oil (extra virgin)
- Garlic (minced)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the hot oil. Sauté until garlic is golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- When spaghetti is done, reserve a cup of pasta water. Drain the rest and add spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss well to coat with the flavored oil, adding reserved pasta water if it seems dry.
- Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt to taste.
- Plate hot spaghetti, adding grated parmesan on top if desired.
Notes
This dish can be served with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to three days.
- 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: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: spaghetti, garlic, Italian, pasta, quick meal
