There’s something magical about a plate of Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio). Picture this: golden strands of pasta twirling gracefully around your fork, glistening with a luscious olive oil sheen, and the aromatic essence of garlic wafting through the air. It’s like a warm hug from an Italian grandmother, comforting yet tantalizingly simple. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe.
Now, let me take you back to my first attempt at making this dish. I was in college, fueled by caffeine and the hope that I could impress my friends with culinary prowess. Spoiler alert: I did not burn down the kitchen, but I did create a masterpiece that made them sing my praises (or perhaps they were just really hungry). This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or spontaneous late-night cravings, promising a burst of flavor that’ll dance on your taste buds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is incredibly easy to make, ensuring you won’t spend hours in the kitchen
- The flavor profile is rich, showcasing the boldness of garlic complemented by olive oil’s smoothness
- Its visual appeal makes it a show-stopper on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main course or side dish
Ingredients for Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Use about 12 ounces of dried spaghetti for the perfect texture; al dente is key!
- Fresh Garlic: You’ll want about 6 cloves; fresh garlic infuses the oil with fantastic flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A generous half cup will make everything taste divine—go for high-quality oil.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch adds delightful warmth without overshadowing the garlic.
- Fresh Parsley: A handful of chopped parsley brightens up the dish and adds color.
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 the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do it! Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
While your pasta cooks, peel and thinly slice the fresh garlic cloves. This step is crucial; you want that garlicky goodness to melt into your oil seamlessly.
Step 3: Heat Olive Oil
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in your extra virgin olive oil. Once it’s warm (but not smoking), toss in those sliced garlic cloves. Keep an eye on them—the goal is golden brown, not burnt!
Step 4: Add Red Pepper Flakes
When your garlic starts to sizzle joyfully in the pan (and smells incredible), add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir for about twenty seconds until fragrant—this is where magic happens.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your drained spaghetti directly into the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until every strand is coated in that heavenly garlic oil mixture.
Step 6: Finish with Parsley
Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your creation. Give it one last toss before serving up this beauty on plates.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more olive oil if you’re feeling fancy for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) offers a burst of flavor with minimal ingredients
- It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests
- Plus, it’s a classic that never disappoints!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve pasta perfection, start by boiling your spaghetti while you sauté minced garlic in olive oil. Once the pasta is al dente, toss it into the pan with the garlic oil for maximum flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Aglio E Olio by adding crushed red pepper for heat, fresh parsley for a pop of color, or even sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to restore moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use high-quality olive oil to enhance flavor; cheap oils can ruin your dish
- Make sure to reserve some pasta water before draining; it adds great texture
- Don’t forget to season your pasta water generously—it makes all the difference!
The first time I made Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio), my friends couldn’t believe how simple yet delicious it was. pepperoni pizza sliders They still ask me for the recipe every time we get together!
FAQs:
What is Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)?
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil, known as Aglio E Olio, is a simple yet flavorful Italian pasta dish. It primarily consists of spaghetti tossed with sautéed garlic in olive oil and often includes red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This dish highlights the beauty of minimal ingredients, making it quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
How do I make Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) spicy?
To add some heat to your Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil, you can incorporate red pepper flakes during the cooking process. The amount can be adjusted based on your spice preference. Additionally, you could mix in some finely chopped fresh chili peppers or drizzle a bit of spicy olive oil before serving to enhance the flavor profile.
Can I customize Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)?
Absolutely! You can customize your Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil by adding various ingredients. Consider tossing in vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition. You could also incorporate proteins like shrimp or chicken if you desire a heartier meal. The versatility makes this dish a perfect canvas for your creativity.
What should I serve with Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)?
When serving Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for contrast. A side of crusty bread is also great for soaking up any leftover oil and garlic sauce. For wine lovers, a crisp white wine complements this dish beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Garlic Butter Carrots recipe.
Conclusion for Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio):
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is the epitome of simplicity in Italian cuisine. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish delivers rich flavors that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Whether you choose to keep it traditional or customize it to your taste, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. juicy shrimp recipe savory Spanish rice recipe It’s not only quick to prepare but also an excellent way to impress guests or enjoy a cozy meal at home.
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 perfectly marries simplicity and flavor. This quick recipe features al dente spaghetti tossed in a luscious blend of aromatic garlic, rich extra virgin olive oil, and a hint of red pepper flakes for warmth. It’s the ultimate go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting yet impressive. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While pasta cooks, slice the garlic cloves thinly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown (not burnt).
- Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 20 seconds until fragrant.
- Add drained spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley before serving. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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