Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe: A Simple Italian Classic

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, a delightful Italian dish, is a true testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. With just a few basic ingredients, it’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. “Aglio” means garlic, and “Olio” means oil, both of which are the heart of this recipe. Here’s how you can recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 200g (7 oz) spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions or until al dente (firm to the bite).
2. Once the pasta is ready, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Infuse the Garlic and Oil

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the pan. Sauté gently, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should turn golden and release its aromatic flavors, but it should not become bitter.
3. Add the red pepper flakes to the garlic and oil mixture. Stir for a few seconds to allow the spices to infuse into the oil.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Aglio e Olio Sauce

1. Once the garlic is ready and the oil has become infused with its flavor, add the cooked spaghetti to the pan.
2. Toss the pasta in the garlic and oil mixture, ensuring that each strand is coated in the rich, fragrant oil.
3. If needed, add a little of the reserved pasta water to help create a silky, cohesive sauce. You want just enough to coat the pasta without making it too runny.

Step 4: Season and Garnish

1. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
3. Optional: Grate some Parmesan cheese over the top for added richness.

Tips:

• Garlic Preparation: Slice the garlic thinly to get a more delicate, evenly infused flavor. If you want a more intense garlic hit, you can mash the garlic.
• Pasta Water: This starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta. If you’ve forgotten to reserve it, just add a splash of water from the tap and stir well.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preference for spice. If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add more.

Why This Dish Works:

• Simplicity: The beauty of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio lies in its minimalism. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s quick to make and bursts with flavor.
• Versatility: This dish can be enjoyed as a light meal or paired with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or even a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Healthy: Olive oil and garlic are packed with health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making this a tasty yet nutritious choice.

Conclusion:

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a quintessential Italian recipe that proves you don’t need a lot of ingredients to create a flavorful dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and will surely impress. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal when you’re craving something delicious and comforting. Enjoy!