Name: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, grated or minced; 1 red chili, finely chopped, or 1 to 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 3 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped; 12 ounces spaghetti; 1½ tablespoons salt (for the pasta water); ¾ gallon water (for cooking the pasta)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the epitome of simplicity and taste. The garlic infuses the oil with rich, savory flavors, while the chili adds a bit of heat and parsley brings freshness. Best of all, it’s an incredibly quick dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal in under 15 minutes. It’s also incredibly versatile—feel free to add extra vegetables or proteins to customize it to your liking.

Ingredients

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, grated or minced
1 red chili, finely chopped, or 1 to 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
3 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
12 ounces spaghetti
1½ tablespoons salt (for the pasta water)
¾ gallon water (for cooking the pasta)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring ¾ gallon of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1½ tablespoons salt and the spaghetti. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente (about 1 minute less than the package instructions). Before draining, scoop out a cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
Make the Aglio e Olio Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over low heat. Add the grated garlic and chopped chili. Let it sizzle gently for about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic. Turn off the heat and let the residual warmth infuse the oil.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: When the pasta is almost done, reheat the oil mixture on low. Add the chopped parsley to the skillet and let it cook for 15-30 seconds. Then, add the drained pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together on medium heat for about a minute, until the pasta is well-coated and silky.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Toss in buttery cannellini or butter beans, or sauté shrimp directly in the garlicky sauce.
Add Lemon: Grate some lemon zest and squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a zingy twist.
Add Veggies: Add spinach or broccoli for some extra nutrition and flavor.
Add Miso: Stir in a spoonful of miso for an umami boost that complements the garlic oil base.

Storage/Reheating

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water, tossing until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use linguine, bucatini, or even angel hair pasta instead of spaghetti.

2. Can I use dried chili flakes instead of fresh chili?

Yes, dried red pepper flakes work perfectly in this recipe. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons depending on how spicy you want the dish.

3. What’s the secret to making the best garlic oil sauce?

The key is to cook the garlic gently over low heat to infuse the oil without burning the garlic. This gives the oil a rich, savory flavor.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

5. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio gluten-free, simply swap out the regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta.

6. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the garlic, chili, and parsley in advance. Just cook the pasta and assemble the dish when you’re ready.

7. Can I use a different type of oil?

Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for this dish, but you can substitute it with any mild olive oil if needed.

8. Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products.

9. How spicy is Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?

The spice level depends on how much chili or red pepper flakes you use. Adjust the amount based on your tolerance for heat.

10. Can I add protein to make this a more filling meal?

Yes! Adding cannellini beans, butter beans, or sautéed shrimp will add protein and make it more hearty.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a delightful, quick, and easy Italian classic that proves that simple ingredients can make for a delicious dish. Whether you enjoy it as is or add your own twist, it’s a satisfying meal that never disappoints. Perfect for those nights when you crave comfort food without the hassle.