Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: Simple, Flavorful Italian Dish
A quick, elegant Italian pasta dish made with garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and fresh herbs. Bold, minimalist, and packed with smoky, garlicky flavor—perfect for weeknight meals.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 12
- Total Time: 17
- Yield: 2–4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
400g spaghetti
6–8 garlic cloves
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2–1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1/2 cup pasta water
1/2 cup optional Parmesan or nutritional yeast
Instructions
Measure ingredients and prepare garlic by thin-slicing.
Bring 4–6 quarts water to a boil. Add 1 tsp salt and cook spaghetti to al dente, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté slowly until golden (7–8 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Toss cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, salt, and pepper in the pan with the garlic-oil mixture. Add chopped parsley. Mix until sauce emulsifies and coats spaghetti.
Serve hot, garnished with optional Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Notes
Use high-quality olive oil for depth of flavor. Adjust chili flakes for spice level. Gluten-free pasta available as substitute. Cilantro or basil works if parsley is unavailable.