Delicious Spaghetti Aglio Olio: 5 Easy Steps

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Spaghetti Aglio Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that never fails to impress with its simplicity and flavor. This dish combines al dente spaghetti with a fragrant garlic and olive oil sauce, accented with a touch of crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it showcases how a few quality ingredients can create a delightful dining experience. Let’s dive into how to make this iconic dish!

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Aglio Olio

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Here are several reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick to make: Ready in just 20 minutes.
Minimal ingredients: Perfect for last-minute meals.
Budget-friendly: A low-cost pasta option.
Vegetarian: Ideal for those following a plant-based diet.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Rich flavor: The combination of garlic and olive oil is irresistible.
Perfect for crowds: Easily scalable for gatherings.
Classic Italian comfort food: A staple in traditional Italian cuisine.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Aglio Olio

Gather these items:

1 pound dried spaghetti
1/2 cup good-quality olive oil
6 to 8 cloves garlic, very thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
Chopped fresh parsley
Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Spaghetti Aglio Olio Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large stockpot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until nearly al dente, about one minute less than the package instructions indicate.
Step 2: Approximately three minutes after adding pasta to boiling water, heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the garlic turns lightly golden, making sure it does not burn.
Step 3: Once the pasta is cooked, use tongs to transfer it directly into the sauté pan with the garlic and oil. Add 1/2 cup of the hot starchy pasta water. Continuously toss the pasta to coat it evenly in the garlic oil sauce. If the sauce seems too dry, add another 1/4 cup of pasta water as needed.
Step 4: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and freshly-grated Parmesan cheese if preferred.

Delicious Spaghetti Aglio Olio: 5 Easy Steps - Spaghetti Aglio Olio - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Aglio Olio

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be customized with additional ingredients like shrimp or vegetables.
Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the garlic until it’s golden brown but not burnt.
Keep tossing the pasta in the pan to ensure even coating with the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Spaghetti Aglio Olio

When it comes to serving, here are a few ideas:

Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic oil.
Top with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for added protein.

How to Store and Reheat Spaghetti Aglio Olio

To store leftovers, let the spaghetti cool and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of pasta water to help revive the flavors when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti Aglio Olio

What’s the secret to perfect Spaghetti Aglio Olio?

The secret lies in using high-quality olive oil and not burning the garlic. This ensures that the garlic flavor infuses the oil beautifully without becoming bitter.

Can I make Spaghetti Aglio Olio ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic oil ahead of time. Just toss the cooked spaghetti with it before serving. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored and reheated as needed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spaghetti Aglio Olio?

To avoid mistakes, ensure the garlic is sautéed over medium heat and watch it closely to prevent burning. Also, don’t skip the starchy pasta water, as it helps to create a silky sauce.

Variations of Spaghetti Aglio Olio You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to customize your dish:

Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie boost.
Incorporate protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Try different herbs like basil or oregano for varied flavors.
For a spicy kick, include more chili flakes or fresh chili peppers.

Delicious Spaghetti Aglio Olio: 5 Easy Steps - Spaghetti Aglio Olio - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Apple Pie Baked Oats or try making Pumpkin Sage Soup for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a fun twist, our Mummy Mini Pizzas are a hit!

For further reading on the benefits of olive oil, you can visit Healthline.