spaghetti with garlic and olive oil recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best spaghetti with garlic and olive oil recipe

This spaghetti with garlic and olive oil recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that never fails to please.

I first learned about this recipe from my Italian grandmother, who would make it for special occasions and family gatherings. The combination of al dente spaghetti, aromatic garlic, and rich olive oil is a match made in heaven.

My family and I love this recipe because it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, yet it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. The health benefits of this dish are numerous – the garlic has antibacterial properties, olive oil is rich in antioxidants, and whole wheat spaghetti provides sustained energy.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. My kids adore it because it’s fun to eat with their hands, and my husband appreciates the simplicity of the ingredients.

I’ve made this recipe countless times over the years, and each time it’s been a hit with everyone in the household. The best part?

It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

4.6 from 1922 votes

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring spaghetti tossed in a savory garlic and olive oil sauce. It is simple to prepare and full of flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 lb spaghetti

For the Sauce

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt, to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
3The spaghetti should be tender but still firm to the bite.
4Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti in a colander.
5While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
7Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
8Drain the spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil.
9Toss the spaghetti well to coat it evenly in the sauce.
10If the pasta is too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
11Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
12Season with salt to taste.
13Toss the spaghetti well to combine all the ingredients.
14The sauce should be creamy and well-distributed, coating the spaghetti evenly.
15Serve the spaghetti aglio e olio immediately, while it is hot.
16Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
17Enjoy your delicious and comforting pasta dish.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 5mg🧂Sodium: 450mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

Tips: For added protein, you can mix in cooked shrimp or chicken. To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

This spaghetti with garlic and olive oil recipe is a staple in our household – we love serving it at family gatherings and special occasions alike.

One of my favorite things about this dish is its versatility; you can serve it on its own or paired with your favorite protein or vegetables.

When storing leftovers, be sure to reheat them properly by adding some extra olive oil to prevent sticking – this way, you’ll enjoy the same flavors as when it was first made.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

1. What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

For this spaghetti with garlic and olive oil recipe, I recommend using high-quality, whole wheat spaghetti. It has a nuttier flavor and chewier texture that pairs perfectly with the garlic and olive oil.

2. Can I substitute garlic with other aromatics?

While you can use other aromatics like shallots or leeks in place of garlic, keep in mind that they will change the flavor profile of the dish. Garlic is a key component of this recipe, so if you want to stick to tradition, use it as is.

3. How do I store leftover spaghetti?

You can store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to add some extra olive oil to prevent sticking.

4. Can I add protein to this recipe?

This spaghetti with garlic and olive oil recipe is quite versatile – you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to make it more substantial.

5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you avoid adding any animal-derived ingredients like parmesan cheese or meat-based broth.

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