Elevate your weeknight dinner with the simplicity and elegance of Pasta Aglio e Olio—Pasta with Garlic and Oil. This traditional Italian recipe combines al dente spaghetti with golden, sautéed garlic, a delicate kick of red pepper flakes, and the richness of extra virgin olive oil for a flavor-packed dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes. Fresh parsley adds a burst of brightness, while optional Parmesan cheese lends a creamy, savory finish. Best of all, this comforting, minimalist dish requires only a handful of pantry staples, making it perfect for busy evenings or last-minute entertaining. Serve it fresh and steaming, with an extra drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy plating. This easy, versatile recipe is a must-try for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Meanwhile, peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic-infused oil.
Add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Toss again to combine thoroughly.
Season with salt and stir in the chopped parsley.
Serve immediately, optionally topping with grated parmesan cheese and additional parsley for garnish.
Calories |
1275 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 68.6 g | 88% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.4 g | 72% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 24 mg | 8% | |
| Sodium | 2826 mg | 123% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 132.5 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.7 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.1 g | ||
| Protein | 36.5 g | 73% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 424 mg | 33% | |
| Iron | 7.5 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 387 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.