There’s nothing quite like a bowl of freshly cooked spaghetti aglio e olio. It makes for a delightful dish that pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread. Imagine serving this pasta alongside a refreshing arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, or a loaf of homemade focaccia straight out of the oven—now we’re talking!
This Italian classic unfolds beautifully in any setting, from casual dinners to laid-back gatherings with friends. When you want something quick that still brings joy, this aglio e olio recipe is your go-to.
Aglio e olio, a staple of authentic Italian cuisine, is a dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, it turns plain spaghetti into something downright magical. Garlic shines here as the star, merging beautifully with olive oil and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes.
This dish will have your taste buds singing and leave you wondering how something so simple can be so good!
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Aglio e olio translates to "garlic and oil" in Italian. This dish hails from Naples and is the quintessential representation of Italian cooking—beautifully simple yet packed with flavor. The beauty of aglio e olio lies in its preparation, which celebrates the flavor of garlic sautéed in olive oil, tossed with pasta, and accentuated with spices and cheese. A perfect comfort food option that's quick enough for a weekday dinner but elegant enough to impress guests.
This recipe for aglio e olio works because it utilizes a few high-quality ingredients to create a rich and flavorful dish without overwhelming the palate. The olive oil acts as a subtle backdrop, letting the garlic shine and providing a silky texture to the pasta. The interplay of heat from the red pepper flakes and the freshness of parsley adds layers to each bite. By balancing these flavors and incorporating authentic Italian cheeses, this dish brings a taste of Italy straight to your table.
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or adjust according to your preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
- 1 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Optional Additions:
- Zest of 1 lemon (for added freshness)
- ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes (for a touch of sweetness
Ingredients From : allrecipes.com
Let’s dive into crafting this delightful dish! Making aglio e olio is not only straightforward but also allows you to engage with those exciting flavors. Just a few steps, and you'll be ready to serve a pasta meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Before diving into cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients laid out. Nothing is worse than starting to cook only to realize you're missing something. Once you have everything ready, you’re set for a smooth cooking experience.
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Once it reaches a steady boil, add the spaghetti. Stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. Cook the pasta for about 10-12 minutes, just until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—firm to the bite but not hard. While the pasta cooks, it's time to prepare the garlic oil.
In a large skillet, pour in the extra-virgin olive oil and add the thinly sliced garlic. Start on medium heat and allow the garlic to gently infuse the oil without burning. This gradual heating will take about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the garlic to turn golden-brown, not dark. When you notice bubbling around the edges, reduce the heat to medium-low and keep stirring for an additional 5 minutes.
When the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Toss the hot pasta in a large bowl. Immediately stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Now, pour the hot olive oil and the beautifully golden garlic over the spaghetti, adding in some of the reserved pasta water for a creamier texture. Toss it all together, ensuring the pasta is coated in that rich garlic oil.
Now, it’s time for the fresh Italian parsley and half of the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Toss once more to combine these fresh elements into your pasta. It will brighten up the dish! Serve your aglio e olio immediately, topped with the remaining cheese to really wow your guests.
- Use Quality Olive Oil: As this dish relies heavily on olive oil, choose a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Adjust the Spice: Red pepper flakes can vary in heat; always start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
- Don't Rush the Garlic: Slowly cooking the garlic in oil draws out its flavor without burning it, which can turn bitter.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a great way to adjust the consistency of the dish and enhance its creaminess!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: You can customize this dish with veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition.
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), you can store your aglio e olio in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a tiny bit of water to breathe life back into the pasta. Heat gently in a skillet over low heat to retain the flavors.
Pair your pasta with these delightful sides:
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze – a classic pairing with pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic oil.
- Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned zucchini and bell peppers are a delicious addition that’s both colorful and nutritious.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing makes for a perfect counterbalance to the pasta’s richness.
- Marinated Olives: A small bowl of assorted olives adds a briny crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
Sometimes you may find yourself short on ingredients. Here are some handy substitutes:
- Pasta: Use fettuccine or linguine if spaghetti isn’t available.
- Olive Oil: If you’re out, you can use canola oil, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano works great as substitutes.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you prefer something milder, ground black pepper can replace the heat.
- Fresh Parsley: Basil or even arugula can add a fresh twist if you're out of parsley.
Aglio e olio is the type of dish that warms not only your belly but your heart. It's quick, easy, and so satisfying, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can create unforgettable meals that celebrate the art of simplicity in cooking.
So, gather your family around the table, serve this pasta with pride, and prepare to savor pasta magic right in your kitchen!
Aglio e olio, a staple of authentic Italian cuisine, is a dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, it turns plain spaghetti into something downright magical. Garlic shines here as the star, merging beautifully with olive oil and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. This dish will have your taste buds singing and leave you wondering how something so simple can be so good!
- Use Quality Olive Oil: As this dish relies heavily on olive oil, choose a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Adjust the Spice: Red pepper flakes can vary in heat; always start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
- Don't Rush the Garlic: Slowly cooking the garlic in oil draws out its flavor without burning it, which can turn bitter.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a great way to adjust the consistency of the dish and enhance its creaminess!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: You can customize this dish with veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition.
Hi Everyone! I’m April Cherry, a registered dietitian and the creator of Affordable Food Ideas. Growing up near Waltham, MA, I learned that flavorful, wholesome meals don’t need to be expensive, and that lesson has shaped my approach to cooking and nutrition. Through my blog, I share budget-friendly recipes and tips to help others eat well without breaking the bank, while still enjoying delicious, nutritious meals.