Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is one of Italy’s most iconic pasta dishes — humble, elegant, and bursting with flavor. Made with just garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, spaghetti, and parsley, this recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner or a comforting quick meal.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 200g spaghetti
- 6–8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional – not traditional but delicious)
👨🍳 Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
🔹 Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
- In a wide pan, heat olive oil on low heat.
- Add sliced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant (don’t burn it).
- Add chili flakes and stir for a few seconds.
🔹 Step 3: Combine with Pasta
- Add the drained spaghetti to the pan along with a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Toss well to coat every strand with garlicky oil.
- Add chopped parsley and toss again.
🔹 Step 4: Serve
- Plate immediately and sprinkle with extra chili flakes or cheese if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or salad.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Best enjoyed fresh and hot.
- Pair with white wine for a light Italian dinner.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use good-quality olive oil — it’s the star!
- Add sautéed mushrooms, shrimp, or zucchini for variations.
- Want it extra spicy? Add a pinch of black pepper or fresh chopped chilies.
