Transform your dinner table into a slice of Italian comfort with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Peperoncino. This classic Italian pasta dish elevates humble pantry staples into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Al dente spaghetti is tossed in a fragrant, golden blend of sautéed garlic, red chili flakes, and extra virgin olive oil, creating a silky, spicy sauce that clings perfectly to each strand. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while a optional sprinkle of Parmesan provides a rich, savory finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining. Serve with a crisp side salad and crusty bread for a satisfying, authentic Italian dining experience.
Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and bring it to a boil.
While the water is heating, finely slice the garlic cloves and chop the parsley.
Cook the spaghetti in the boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Once the oil is warm, add the sliced garlic and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes until it becomes golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the red chili flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Reduce the heat to low and add the drained spaghetti to the pan. Toss it in the garlic and chili-infused oil to coat the pasta evenly.
Add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to help create a silky sauce. Toss well and season with black pepper and additional salt, if necessary.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the pasta and toss again to combine.
Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Calories |
1118 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 66.6 g | 85% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.5 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 27 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 7510 mg | 327% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 103.7 g | 38% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.3 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.9 g | ||
| Protein | 30.2 g | 60% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 449 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 6.4 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 354 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.