Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe Guide

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is one of those classic Italian dishes that’s not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make. From my own personal experience, it’s the perfect go-to meal when you want something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. Let me show you how I make this delightful dish that highlights the beauty of simplicity.

What You Can Expect

This recipe showcases the harmony of garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes. The beauty of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio lies in its simplicity  just a few ingredients come together to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Plus, it’s easily adaptable. Whether you want to add veggies or protein, this dish is a canvas for your creativity.

Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Time to Stand: 0 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 2-3
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $6-10 (depending on ingredient quality and local prices)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course
• Equipment Needed: Pot, frying pan, colander, spatula or tongs, measuring spoons.
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #spaghettiaglioeolio here

Ingredients

• 200g spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• 6-8 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #spaghettiaglioeolio here

Step-by-Step Method

1. Boil the Pasta:
   • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Oil:
   • While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red chili flakes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic turns golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Combine Pasta and Oil:
   • Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti using a colander. Add the drained pasta to the frying pan with the garlic oil. Toss to coat the spaghetti well. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Season and Serve:
   • Season the pasta with salt to taste. Toss in the chopped parsley if using. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Variations

• Add Protein: Consider adding grilled shrimp, chicken, or sautéed mushrooms to the pasta for extra flavor and protein.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful, nutritious twist.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese.

Tips and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Low-Carb: Swap spaghetti for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to keep it low-carb.
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #spaghettiaglioeolio here

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: Varies based on salt used

Troubleshooting Tips

• Pasta Sticking: Make sure to stir the spaghetti in the pot while it’s cooking. Adding a little oil to the boiling water can help prevent sticking.
• Garlic Burning: If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat. If it burns, start over; burnt garlic can ruin the dish.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a testament to the fact that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. From my own personal experience, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends. With its versatility, you can easily tailor it to your preferences. So, grab your ingredients, and let me show you how to create this Italian classic that will surely impress.