Description
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity and robust flavor. Featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, accented with red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a hint of lemon juice, this recipe delivers a quick, comforting meal in just 20 minutes that's perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 tsp salt (divided)
Sauce and Garnish
- 1 bulb garlic (about 20 cloves, peeled and sliced thin)
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ tsp cracked red pepper
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp Italian parsley (minced)
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Gather all ingredients. Fill a large pot with water, add ½ tsp salt, and bring it to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Strain Pasta: Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water to be used later in the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add olive oil, sliced garlic, ½ tsp salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Pour the strained spaghetti into the saucepan with the garlic and oil mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat every strand.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, minced parsley, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Toss again until the cheese melts into the sauce, giving the pasta a silky texture. Add additional reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; slicing it thin allows it to infuse the oil thoroughly.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste, depending on your desired spice level.
- Reserve pasta water because its starch helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness and flavor.
- This recipe pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread.
