Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is one of the most beloved pasta dishes in Italian cuisine. Originating from Naples, this classic recipe is cherished for its simplicity and delightful flavors. The name “Aglio e Olio” translates to “garlic and oil,” the two key ingredients that form the foundation of this dish. What makes it so iconic is how these humble ingredients, when combined with the right techniques, create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying, with a perfect balance of richness and heat. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. With its minimalistic approach, you can enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish that complements a variety of meals.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through every step of how to make this delicious Italian pasta at home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is an easy and quick dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is adored by food lovers around the world. Below are just a few:

Simplicity: It requires only a handful of ingredients – pasta, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes. You can make this dish without a trip to the grocery store, as the ingredients are pantry staples for most kitchens.
Speed: In just 20-30 minutes, you can have a flavorful pasta dish ready to enjoy. The garlic and oil sauce comes together quickly, making it ideal for when you’re in a time crunch.
Versatility: You can easily customize Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with your favorite ingredients. Add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes, or toss in proteins like shrimp, chicken, or even crispy bacon for added depth.
Flavor: The marriage of rich, golden olive oil with the subtle bitterness of garlic and the spicy kick from red pepper flakes creates a balanced, flavorful dish. You can adjust the spice level based on your preference, allowing for a personalized experience.
Healthy Option: Without heavy sauces or creamy ingredients, this pasta dish is a lighter alternative to many other Italian pasta recipes. The olive oil provides healthy fats, and the garlic has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Authenticity: This dish is a taste of traditional Italian cooking at its finest. It brings the authentic flavors of Italy right to your table, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves exploring Italian culinary traditions.

Ingredients

For this dish, you need only a few essential ingredients to create a bold and flavorful meal:

400 grams (14 oz) of spaghetti: Spaghetti is the traditional pasta used in this dish, but feel free to substitute it with linguine, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.
6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced: Garlic is the star of the show here, providing a rich, aromatic base to the dish.
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: High-quality olive oil is essential for making this recipe. The oil’s flavor enhances the dish, creating a luxurious texture and a rich backdrop for the garlic and chili flakes.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: The red pepper flakes give the dish a spicy kick, which can be adjusted based on how much heat you prefer.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley adds freshness and color to the dish. It’s a vital ingredient in balancing the richness of the olive oil and garlic.
Salt, to taste: Salt is necessary to enhance the flavors of the ingredients and help bring everything together.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Black pepper adds a touch of heat and enhances the overall flavor.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): While Parmesan is optional, it adds a savory richness to the dish and is often sprinkled on top for added flavor.

Preparation

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect Spaghetti Aglio e Olio:

Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 4-6 liters of water and add a generous amount of salt (this is essential for seasoning the pasta). Add the spaghetti to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Remember to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. When the pasta is cooked to your desired level, drain it, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Oil

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the extra virgin olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced garlic. Stir the garlic frequently to ensure it cooks evenly, and don’t let it brown too quickly. The goal is to infuse the oil with the garlic’s aroma, turning it golden and fragrant without burning it. This should take around 2-3 minutes, but keep a watchful eye on it to prevent it from turning bitter.

Step 3: Add the Red Pepper Flakes

Once the garlic is golden and fragrant, add the red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir the flakes into the oil for about 30 seconds to allow the heat from the oil to bring out the full flavor of the chili. If you like your dish spicier, feel free to add more red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your personal preference for heat.

Step 4: Combine the Spaghetti with the Garlic Oil

Now it’s time to bring the pasta and the garlic oil together. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture. Toss the pasta thoroughly to coat it in the oil, making sure each strand is evenly covered with the garlicky goodness. If the pasta seems a little dry, add some of the reserved pasta water (about 2-3 tablespoons at a time) to loosen the sauce. The starchy water will help the oil adhere to the pasta and create a silky texture.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the pasta is well coated, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Once everything is well balanced, transfer the pasta to serving plates. For an extra touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, though this is optional. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Variation

While Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is delicious in its simplest form, there are several variations you can try to make it your own:

With Protein: Adding protein to the dish will elevate it to a full meal. Try adding shrimp, grilled chicken, or anchovies. If using shrimp, sauté it separately and toss it with the pasta in Step 4. Grilled chicken can be sliced and added on top of the pasta for an added boost of flavor and texture.
With Vegetables: You can add sautéed vegetables to the pasta, such as spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Sauté the vegetables in the olive oil along with the garlic in Step 2 for a more hearty, colorful dish.
Lemon Zest: For a touch of citrus freshness, add some lemon zest to the garlic oil mixture or squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish. The tanginess will balance the richness of the olive oil and garlic.
Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is the go-to cheese for this dish, you can experiment with other cheeses. Pecorino Romano is a sharper alternative, or you can even top the pasta with a dollop of ricotta for a creamier texture.

Cooking Notes

Choosing the Right Olive Oil: The quality of the olive oil you use will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for this recipe due to its rich, robust flavor. Avoid using low-quality or cooking olive oils, as they may not provide the same depth of flavor.
Don’t Burn the Garlic: Garlic is the star of this dish, and overcooking it can result in bitterness that overpowers the entire meal. Keep the heat on medium and monitor the garlic closely. If it starts turning brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
Pasta Water is Key: The reserved pasta water is crucial for making the sauce adhere to the pasta. It’s rich in starch, which helps emulsify the oil and create a silky, smooth texture. Don’t forget to reserve some before draining the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or as part of a larger meal. Here are some great serving ideas:

Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette will complement the richness of the pasta. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast.
Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining garlic oil on your plate. A fresh baguette or ciabatta would work perfectly.
Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. The acidity of the wine helps balance the richness of the olive oil.

Tips

Pasta Timing: Be sure to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy when mixed with the garlic oil, so follow the cooking time on the package for the best texture.
Adjusting Heat: The red pepper flakes add a nice spicy kick to the dish, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. For a milder version, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
Extra Flavor Boost: If you want to add more depth to the dish, try adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic and before adding the pasta. This will create a slightly tangy undertone that complements the garlic oil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time 15-20 minutes

Total Time 25-30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 400-450 per serving (without Parmesan)
Protein: 10 grams per serving
Sodium: 300 milligrams per serving (may vary depending on the amount of salt used)

FAQs

1. Can I make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the pasta in a pan with a little olive oil to revive its flavor.

2. Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great choice if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. It provides more fiber and nutrients but may have a slightly nuttier flavor than traditional pasta.

3. How can I make the dish less oily? You can reduce the amount of olive oil or substitute a portion with vegetable broth for a lighter version. However, olive oil is integral to the flavor and texture of the dish, so adjust cautiously.

4. Can I add cheese to Spaghetti Aglio e Olio? Yes, adding cheese, particularly Parmesan, enhances the flavor of the dish. It’s optional, but many people love the added creaminess it provides.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a timeless Italian dish that proves simplicity is often the key to greatness. With only a few ingredients and quick preparation, you can create a delicious, aromatic pasta that showcases the natural flavors of garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that’s both elegant and satisfying, this recipe is sure to please. The versatility of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio means you can easily modify it to suit your taste, making it a perfect go-to dish for every occasion. Try it today, and experience the magic of authentic Italian cooking.