Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is one of Italy’s simplest yet most flavorful pasta dishes. Made with only a few pantry staples—garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, parsley, and pasta—it transforms into a meal that’s rich in aroma and taste. The warm olive oil gently infuses with golden garlic, coating every strand of spaghetti in a silky, fragrant sauce. This dish is fast, elegant, and comforting, making it perfect for busy nights or when you crave something light yet deeply satisfying.
2. Ingredients
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12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
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6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
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⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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Lemon zest (optional, for freshness)
3. Instructions
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Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
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Prepare the garlic oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook slowly for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
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Add chili flakes: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 15 seconds to release their flavor into the oil.
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Toss the pasta: Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles.
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Season and finish: Add salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Toss again until the pasta glistens. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and lemon zest if desired.
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Serve hot: Plate the spaghetti while warm and serve immediately with extra parsley or a drizzle of olive oil on top.
4. Preparation & Cooking Time
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cooking time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 20 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 2–3 people
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 430 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 2 g
7. Tips
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Use high-quality olive oil, as it’s the heart of this dish.
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Slice garlic thin and cook gently to draw out sweetness, not bitterness.
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Add anchovy paste or a few chopped anchovies for a deeper, savory flavor.
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For a touch of crunch, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.
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Pair this pasta with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
8. Final Thought
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio proves that the simplest recipes often deliver the most memorable flavors. With its perfect balance of garlicky aroma, gentle heat, and silky texture, this dish brings pure Italian comfort to your table in just minutes. It’s an effortless, timeless meal that always satisfies.
