Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: The Ultimate Italian Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta

Introduction
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is an iconic and simple Italian pasta dish originating from Naples, beloved for its bold garlic flavor and satisfying simplicity. This classic recipe combines just a few ingredients—garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley—into a dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this dish is always a hit. In just under 20 minutes, you can serve up a truly delicious and aromatic plate of pasta, making it the perfect go-to meal when you’re in a pinch.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a shining example of how minimal ingredients can create a dish bursting with depth and richness. The fragrant garlic and olive oil meld together beautifully, while the red pepper flakes add just the right touch of heat to make each bite exciting. Best of all, this dish can be customized in many ways to suit your taste, making it versatile enough to satisfy all kinds of preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Simple: Ready in less than 20 minutes, using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Garlicky Goodness: The olive oil is infused with garlic, creating a savory, aromatic base that’s perfect for coating each strand of pasta.
• Classic Italian Flavor: Straight from Naples, this recipe is a tried-and-true favorite in Italian homes and restaurants.
• Customizable: Add protein like shrimp or chicken, or enhance the dish with extra veggies to suit your cravings.
• Perfect for Busy Nights: No need for fancy techniques or exotic ingredients—just simple, satisfying flavors.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz spaghetti
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp salt (for seasoning)
• Black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano (optional)
• Lemon zest (optional, for a bright, fresh twist)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it until just one minute less than al dente, as you will continue cooking the pasta with the garlic-infused oil later. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta—this starchy water will be key to creating a silky sauce later on.

2. Infuse the Olive Oil with Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the pan. Allow the garlic to cook gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful to keep the heat low enough to avoid burning the garlic, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish.

3. Add Red Pepper Flakes

Once the garlic is golden and aromatic, it’s time to add the red pepper flakes. Stir them in and let them toast in the oil for about 30 seconds. This will allow the flakes to release their natural flavors and infuse the oil with a gentle spiciness. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on how much heat you prefer in the dish.

4. Toss the Pasta in the Garlic Oil

Now, add your cooked and drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta well, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the garlic-infused oil. Next, pour in about ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. This starchy water will help to emulsify the oil, creating a smoother, richer sauce that clings to the pasta. Toss and stir the pasta continuously until the sauce has come together and everything is well combined. Add more reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamier texture.

5. Season and Finish

Once the pasta is perfectly coated, season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. If you like, finish the dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a cheesy, savory kick. For an extra burst of freshness, you can add a touch of lemon zest before serving.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio immediately while it’s still hot. The vibrant, garlicky oil sauce will coat each strand of pasta, creating a dish that’s simple yet incredibly flavorful. If you like, garnish with extra parsley, grated cheese, or a squeeze of lemon for an added dimension of flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Protein Boost – Add grilled shrimp, sautéed chicken, or crispy pancetta for added protein and texture.

Mushroom Aglio e Olio – For a more earthy flavor, sauté mushrooms along with the garlic until golden brown, then toss them with the pasta.

Creamy Aglio e Olio – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of butter at the end for a rich, creamy version of this classic dish.

Extra Veggies – Toss in some spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to add more flavor and nutrition to your pasta.

Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish suitable for those on a gluten-free diet.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Spaghetti Aglio e Olio in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to bring back its original texture.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?
While fresh garlic is always recommended for the best flavor, pre-minced garlic will work in a pinch. Just be sure to reduce the cooking time to prevent it from burning.

What type of olive oil should I use?
For the best taste, opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Its robust flavor will be a key component of the dish.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
The key is to cook the garlic over medium-low heat. Stir often and keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn—once the garlic turns golden and fragrant, it’s time to add the red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes! Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to achieve a milder flavor. You can also add some extra lemon zest for brightness instead of heat.

Can I add cheese to this dish?
Traditionally, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is served without cheese, but adding Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can provide a rich, savory flavor.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Spaghetti is the classic choice, but linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair pasta can also work well with this sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic-infused oil in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly when you’re ready to cook.

How can I make the sauce extra creamy?
If you prefer a creamier sauce, simply use more reserved pasta water or stir in a small amount of cream or butter.

What pairs well with Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad, such as a fresh arugula salad, or some garlic bread to soak up the leftover garlic oil.

Can I use different herbs?
Certainly! While parsley is traditional, basil or oregano can also be used for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a perfect example of how the simplest ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish delivers bold, delicious flavors in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, this quick yet satisfying Italian recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Try this recipe tonight for a delicious, easy meal that never fails to impress!