If you’re craving a dish that brilliantly combines simplicity and deep, comforting flavor, this Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an Italian classic that proves a few humble ingredients, treated with care, can create an unforgettable meal. With perfectly al dente spaghetti swimming in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, a hint of spicy red pepper flakes, and the brightness of fresh parsley, this recipe captures the essence of cozy, home-cooked Italian food with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe couldn’t be easier, and each ingredient plays a vital role in building this dish’s signature flavor. From the garlicky punch to the silky texture, every element is essential to the final magic.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta choice for absorbing that luscious garlic oil sauce without overpowering it.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key – it provides sharpness and aroma that define the dish.
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: High-quality olive oil delivers richness and smoothness, turning this simple pasta into something special.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to awaken your taste buds, adjustable depending on how spicy you like it.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color that brightens every bite.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
How to Make Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti to Al Dente Perfection
Start by boiling a large pot of generously salted water – this is your chance to infuse flavor directly into the pasta. Add the spaghetti and cook it until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Al dente pasta should be tender but with a slight firmness to the bite, which is essential for holding onto the sauce beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil Until Golden
While the pasta cooks, warm the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown. This step is where the oil soaks up the garlicky aroma, creating the soul of the sauce. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as that will bring bitterness.
Step 3: Add Red Pepper Flakes to Infuse Heat
Next, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds. This quick step infuses the oil with a subtle spiciness that complements the richness without overpowering it, giving the dish a pleasant warming kick.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Garlic Oil, Creating a Silky Sauce
Reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti. Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet with the garlic oil and toss it well to combine. Slowly add some reserved pasta water as you mix; this starchy water helps the oil cling to every strand of spaghetti, creating that irresistible, silky coating we all love.
Step 5: Finish with Parsley and Season with Salt
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley and salt to taste. The parsley adds freshness and a splash of color, while the salt balances and elevates all the layers of flavor.
Step 6: Serve Immediately with an Optional Olive Oil Drizzle
Plate your Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe right away, and if you’d like, finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an added touch of richness and shine. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot!
How to Serve Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but a few garnishes can elevate it even more. Try topping the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for a creamy salty contrast. A sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch, while lemon zest can inject a lovely zing that enlivens the flavors.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, serve this spaghetti alongside light and fresh sides. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly. Roasted vegetables or a simple caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are fantastic Italian-inspired pairs that bring balance to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, try twirling the spaghetti into neat nests on each plate, creating a restaurant-style look. You can also place the pasta in wide, shallow bowls and garnish each serving individually with fresh herbs and chili flakes for an inviting and colorful display that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, though because of its delicate freshness, it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Avoid tossing it with extra olive oil before storing to prevent it from becoming greasy.
Freezing
While freezing pasta dishes can sometimes alter texture, you can freeze Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe if needed. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to one month. When you thaw it, reheat gently to preserve its flavor and avoid overcooking the pasta.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to bring back that silky consistency. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the pasta and mute the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional and works beautifully, you can swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even bucatini if you want to mix things up. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain that al dente texture.
How spicy is this Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe?
The spice level is moderate thanks to the red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste. Add less for a milder flavor or more if you crave a bolder kick.
What kind of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is best for this recipe because it offers a rich flavor and smooth texture that elevates the pasta. Using good-quality oil makes a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Can I prepare the garlic oil in advance?
While you can prepare the garlic oil ahead, it’s best to combine it with the pasta just before serving to keep the garlic flavor fresh and avoid any bitterness from overcooked garlic.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! This dish is naturally vegan as long as you skip cheese toppings. The combination of garlic, olive oil, pasta, and parsley creates a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about how such straightforward ingredients come together in this Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a wonderful go-to for busy nights or when you want to impress with minimal effort. Give it a try—you might find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Italian pasta dish, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio combines simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes for a quick, flavorful meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a comforting dinner with a spicy kick and fresh herbaceous notes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti
Garlic Oil Sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for later use.
- Prepare Garlic Oil: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden brown, approximately 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Spice: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to infuse the oil with a subtle heat.
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Gradually toss the pasta and add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth sauce coating the noodles.
- Finish and Season: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt to taste, mixing well to combine the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, optionally drizzling with extra olive oil for added richness.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water when draining spaghetti; it helps emulsify the sauce and adds silkiness.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and avoid burning it to prevent bitterness.
- For a richer taste, drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish before serving.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
