Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) Recipe

If you’re ever in the mood for something incredibly comforting yet surprisingly elegant, look no further than Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio). This classic Italian dish comes together in minutes with a handful of simple pantry ingredients, yet its flavors are anything but basic. The gentle sizzle of garlic in fragrant olive oil, the lively heat from a pinch of red pepper, and the freshness of parsley transform humble spaghetti into a meal you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the magical things about Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is how it elevates just a few everyday ingredients. Each plays a starring role, whether it’s adding peppery heat or binding everything together in a glossy, golden sauce.

• Spaghetti: Choose your favorite variety, but a classic durum wheat spaghetti holds its shape and texture best in this minimalist dish.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Quality matters here—the oil is your sauce, so pick one you love for big, fruity flavor.
• Garlic (thinly sliced): Slicing instead of mincing gives lovely golden slivers that infuse the oil and provide mellow, nutty notes.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just half a teaspoon adds a gentle tingle; add more (or less) for your perfect level of heat.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped): This is your finishing touch—it adds a welcome pop of color and a burst of freshness.
• Salt (for the pasta water): Salting your pasta water is the first step to well-seasoned noodles!
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (for garnish): Not traditional, but totally delicious. Add as much as your heart desires.

How to Make Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente, following the time on your package (usually about 8-10 minutes). And here’s a key tip for Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio): right before you drain the pasta, scoop out half a cup of that starchy pasta cooking water. It’s the secret ingredient that will help bring your sauce together beautifully later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

While your pasta is bubbling away, set a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, gently scatter in your thinly sliced garlic. Let it sizzle for about 1-2 minutes, keeping a close watch so it turns fragrant and golden but never burns. When it’s just right, sprinkle in your red pepper flakes and give the pan a swirl—the aroma at this point is pure magic!

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Quickly add the drained spaghetti straight into the skillet with the garlic oil. Use tongs to vigorously toss and coat every strand in that luscious, flavor-packed oil. If the mixture looks a little dry, drizzle in some of the reserved pasta water a bit at a time until the spaghetti glistens and comes together in a silky, light sauce. This is essential for the perfect texture in Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio).

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Turn off the heat and add a generous handful of fresh, chopped parsley. This instantly brightens up the whole dish. For extra richness, you can shower the pasta with grated Parmesan cheese before giving everything one last happy toss. Serve up right away while it’s hot and aromatic—you want everyone to catch that first whiff of garlic and olive oil!

How to Serve Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)

Garnishes

A sprinkling of fresh parsley is classic, providing color and a lift of herbaceous flavor. For cheese lovers, a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan is irresistible. You can also add a pinch more red pepper flakes for extra kick or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra sheen and depth.

Side Dishes

Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, or a platter of roasted vegetables. A side of rustic bread is perfect for swiping up every last trace of garlicky goodness from your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn the dish into a fun main course by offering a “toppings bar” with lemon zest, toasted breadcrumbs, capers, or even sautéed mushrooms, so everyone can customize their bowl. For a gorgeous family-style presentation, twirl the spaghetti into nests on each plate and top with extra parsley and cheese for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) will taste best enjoyed within two to three days, though you’ll want to give it a quick refresh before serving again to bring back its silky texture.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze this dish, its quality is so much better fresh. The garlic can lose its wonderful texture and the oil may separate after defrosting. If needed, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to one month and thaw gently before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, add the spaghetti to a skillet with a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil. Heat gently over low, tossing frequently until warmed through and glossy. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to dry out the pasta and diminish that signature Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional for Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio), linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair are delicious alternatives that soak up the sauce just as well.

Is it okay to use pre-minced garlic from a jar?

Fresh, thinly sliced garlic is best for both taste and texture in this dish. Pre-minced garlic can sometimes be sharper or more pungent, so if you use it, adjust the amount to taste.

What can I add to make it a complete meal?

You can toss in sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or even roasted veggies for extra protein and heft. But honestly, Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) shines brightest in its pure, simple form.

Can I make it less spicy?

Definitely! Simply reduce or skip the red pepper flakes to keep it on the mild side. Or, let people add their own at the table so everyone gets their perfect heat level.

Do I have to include Parmesan cheese?

Not at all. Traditional Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) is cheese-free, letting the olive oil and garlic stand out. Parmesan is just a bonus for those who love it, but the dish is absolutely satisfying either way.

Final Thoughts

There’s a special kind of magic in a meal that’s so simple yet so full of flavor, and that’s what Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio) offers every single time. It’s cozy, quick, and endlessly satisfying—perfect for weeknights, date nights, or any night you need a little comfort. Give it a whirl and discover just why Italians swear by this classic. Buon appetito!

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