SPAGHETTI AGLIO E OLIO

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a quick and simple dish made with just garlic, olive oil, and pasta, making it both budget-friendly and easy to prepare. Despite its simplicity, it’s full of flavor, thanks to the aromatic blend of garlic and red pepper flakes.


Ingredients

  • 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
  • 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Prepare the Aglio e Olio Sauce:

  • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet. Cook slowly, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
  • Add the red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

  • Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil.
  • Toss the pasta to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles.

Season and Serve:

  • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
  • Serve immediately, with optional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flavor.

Tips

  • You can adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
  • Adding a bit of lemon zest or juice can brighten up the dish.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple salad or some crusty bread.

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