Description
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet flavorful Italian pasta dish made with garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley. This classic Neapolitan recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a delicious, satisfying meal in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt (plus more for pasta water)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Lemon zest (optional, for extra freshness)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large pan over medium-low heat, warm the olive oil. Add garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Add red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Toss in the drained spaghetti, stirring to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta looks dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water.
- Stir in the parsley and season with salt to taste.
- Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add anchovies or toasted breadcrumbs.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: ~400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg