Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe

If you are craving something simple yet incredibly flavorful, this Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe is the answer to your pasta prayers. It takes only ten minutes and a handful of basic ingredients to transform ordinary spaghetti into a delightful dish bursting with fragrant garlic, a gentle kick from chili, and the smooth richness of extra virgin olive oil. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a weekend comfort food classic, this recipe combines timeless Italian flavors with ease and elegance that make every bite utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe so wonderful is how its few, simple ingredients pack a big punch. Each one plays a crucial role, from the silky olive oil to the fresh parsley that adds brightness and color.

• 1 lb (450 grams) spaghetti: Use your favorite long pasta that cooks to a perfect al dente texture.
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil: The heart of the dish, providing richness and carrying the flavors beautifully.
• 4-5 garlic cloves, finely sliced: Infuses the oil with a mellow, aromatic taste that is simply irresistible.
• 1 tsp dried chili flakes or 3 fresh chilies: Adds just the right level of heat to balance the garlic and oil.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional): For a nutty, savory finish—use only if you’re not keeping the dish vegan.
• Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors and seasons the pasta perfectly.

How to Make Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until it’s al dente—soft with a slight bite. This texture is key because the pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce, ensuring the perfect bite every time.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Chili

While your spaghetti cooks, peel and finely slice the garlic cloves. If you are using fresh chilies instead of dried flakes, remove the seeds to tame the heat, then finely chop them. This step is essential in layering flavors that will infuse the olive oil.

Step 3: Infuse the Olive Oil

Place the olive oil in a frying pan over gentle heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili, allowing them to gently sizzle and release their aromatic flavors into the oil. Watch carefully so the garlic turns pale gold but doesn’t burn—this golden hue is where the magic lives. Once fragrant, stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbaceousness.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain the spaghetti when al dente, remembering to reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water. Transfer the pasta directly into the frying pan with the infused oil. Toss the spaghetti to coat it evenly in the aromatic garlic and chili oil. Add small amounts of the reserved starchy cooking water to keep the pasta juicy and luscious without making it watery. Toss and cook over medium heat for about 30 seconds to marry the flavors perfectly.

Step 5: Add Final Touches and Serve

Once coated and glossy, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle extra chopped parsley for freshness and, if you like, grate parmesan cheese over the top for a savory finish. This last step elevates the dish, making it a simple yet elegant meal ready for your table.

How to Serve Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is an absolute must for garnish. Its vibrant green hue and fresh, slightly peppery bite brighten up the finished dish. For a touch of luxury and umami, sprinkle a little more parmesan cheese if you’re not vegan. Some crushed red pepper flakes on top can also enhance the heat for those who love a bit of spice.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread is a natural companion, giving the meal that comforting, carb-lover’s delight. Roasted vegetables or a light bruschetta can also round out the meal nicely without overwhelming the pasta’s elegant simplicity.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the spaghetti twirled neatly into nests on each plate for an eye-catching presentation. Add a lemon wedge on the side for an optional zesty squeeze that brightens the flavors further. For gatherings, present the dish in a large, rustic bowl topped with parsley and a parmesan wedge for an inviting, family-style feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors intensify overnight, making it a tasty second-day treat. Just make sure to cool it before storing to maintain texture and freshness.

Freezing

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh due to the olive oil-based sauce, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Note that the texture of the garlic-infused oil may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce and prevent dryness. Avoid microwaving whenever possible to keep the garlic oil from tasting bitter and to maintain the dish’s silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use linguine, fettuccine, or even a ribbon pasta that can hold the garlicky olive oil sauce just as well.

How spicy is this Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe?

The heat level depends on how many chili flakes or fresh chilies you add. You can adjust the spice to your liking, from mildly warming to fiery hot.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the parmesan cheese or swap it for a vegan parmesan substitute. The dish itself is naturally vegan-friendly, full of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.

What kind of olive oil should I use?

This recipe shines when using high-quality extra virgin olive oil, as its rich and fruity flavor is essential to creating the sauce’s depth and brightness.

Can I prepare the garlic and oil mixture in advance?

While you can prepare the infused oil a few hours ahead, it’s best made fresh to ensure the garlic flavor remains bright and the oil doesn’t become bitter.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the simplicity of the Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe that makes it a cherished classic in any kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, wonderfully fragrant, and utterly satisfying in every way, especially when shared with friends and family. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll find it’s a timeless dish that never goes out of style and will surely become your go-to pasta for cozy dinners and effortlessly elegant meals.

Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil Recipe

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A classic and simple Italian pasta dish featuring spaghetti tossed in a fragrant garlic and olive oil sauce with a subtle kick from chili flakes, fresh parsley, and optional grated parmesan cheese. Ready in just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
• Total Time: 10-12 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 lb (450 grams) spaghetti or other long pasta

Sauce

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 4–5 garlic cloves, finely sliced
• 1 tsp dried chili flakes, or to taste (or 3 fresh chilies, seeded and chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve (optional, omit for vegan)

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook until al dente, meaning the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite, usually around 8-10 minutes.
2. Prepare the aromatics: While the pasta cooks, peel and finely slice the garlic. If using fresh chilies instead of dried flakes, remove their seeds and finely chop them.
3. Infuse the olive oil: In a frying pan over gentle heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add the sliced garlic and chili flakes (or fresh chilies) and cook gently for a few minutes until the garlic turns pale golden, allowing the flavors to infuse without burning.
4. Add parsley to the oil: Stir the coarsely chopped fresh parsley into the infused oil to release freshness and aroma.
5. Drain pasta and reserve water: Drain the spaghetti when al dente, reserving about 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water.
6. Toss pasta in the sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the frying pan with the flavored olive oil. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly. Add the reserved cooking water gradually as needed to keep the pasta moist and juicy.
7. Finish cooking and serve: Cook the pasta and sauce together over medium heat for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with additional chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter and ruin the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the amount of chili flakes or fresh chili according to your preferred spice level.
• Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor impact.
• Reserve some pasta cooking water; its starchiness helps create a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
• For a vegan version, omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.