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Summer’s Simplest Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe

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4.7 from 66 reviews

A classic Italian pasta dish that’s quick, simple, and bursting with flavor. This Summer’s Simplest Spaghetti Aglio e Olio features al dente spaghetti tossed with fragrant garlic sautéed in extra virgin olive oil, a hint of spicy red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and finishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a light, satisfying meal any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 400g spaghetti

Sauce

  • 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

To Serve

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
  2. Sauté the garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add red pepper flakes: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor into the oil.
  4. Toss pasta in garlic oil: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil mixture. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to help emulsify the sauce and loosen the pasta if needed.
  5. Season and finish: Season with salt to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley to add freshness and color.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps create a silky sauce when mixing the pasta and oil.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
  • Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright note, but you can also experiment with basil or oregano.

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/summers-simplest-spaghetti-aglio-e-olio-recipe/