Description
Craving something quick, comforting, and full of flavor? Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is your answer. This easy dinner idea takes just 20 minutes and transforms pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy plate. Made with golden sautéed garlic, silky olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, it’s the kind of healthy snack or quick lunch that proves less truly is more. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meatless meal, late-night food ideas, or classic Italian simplicity, this easy recipe delivers big flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients
400g dried spaghetti
6 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese (optional)
1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté gently until golden and fragrant.
3. Add red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release the flavor.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss with garlic oil using tongs, adding a splash of pasta water to help coat the pasta.
5. Stir in fresh parsley and season with black pepper. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
6. Optionally, mix in lemon zest, cheese, or toasted breadcrumbs for added flavor.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or toppings of choice.
Notes
Always cook garlic low and slow to avoid bitterness.
Don’t forget to salt your pasta water—it’s key to flavor.
The dish is best served fresh but can be reheated with a little water or oil.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg