Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
A simple and classic Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
- Author: sarra
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat with the oil and garlic.
- If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and toss in chopped parsley if using.
- Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality olive oil for best flavor.
- Be cautious not to overcook the garlic—it can become bitter.
- This dish is traditionally served without cheese, but Parmesan can be added for extra richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: spaghetti aglio e olio, garlic pasta, Italian pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta