Simplicity meets elegance with this classic Spaghetti Aglio Olio recipe, a timeless Italian dish bursting with flavor despite its minimal ingredients. Perfectly al dente spaghetti is tossed with golden sautéed garlic, bold red pepper flakes, and the rich aroma of extra virgin olive oil, all brought to life by a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is the epitome of effortless cooking, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. Customize with a touch of Parmesan cheese for added indulgence, and enjoy a dish that's as comforting as it is wholesome. This recipe is a must-try for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine and those seeking the magic of simplicity in every bite.
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, generously season the water with salt.
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
While the spaghetti is cooking, peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves.
In a large, deep skillet or pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic to the olive oil and gently sauté until the garlic turns golden brown and becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release their spice and flavor.
Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture. Toss well to coat the spaghetti in the oil.
Gradually add the reserved pasta water, as needed, to help emulsify the sauce and ensure the spaghetti is well coated.
Add the chopped fresh parsley to the skillet and toss to combine.
Season the spaghetti with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra layer of flavor.
Calories |
1144 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 60.3 g | 77% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.0 g | 45% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 10 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 129.5 g | 47% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.5 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.2 g | ||
| Protein | 24.8 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 85 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 7.3 mg | 41% | |
| Potassium | 350 mg | 7% | |
*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.