Spaghetti with garlic oil

Spaghetti aglio e olio is a simple yet incredibly flavorful Italian dish that brings together garlic and olive oil with pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. It is perfect for those nights when you want something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes and uses pantry staples that are often on hand, making it a go to option for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a little Italian magic.

I first made this during a hectic weekday when I barely had any time to cook. The ease and amazing flavor made it an instant favorite for everyone at home. Now I make it regularly whenever I need a quick and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: The classic choice for this dish cook until al dente for the best texture
• Olive oil: Choose high quality extra virgin olive oil for the richest flavor and smooth finish
• Garlic: Thinly sliced fresh garlic is essential for that nutty and aromatic taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle spicy kick and depth adjust to your heat preference or omit if sensitive to spice
• Salt: For the pasta water essential to flavor the pasta properly
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley for brightness shaved parmesan cheese for richness lemon zest or juice for a fresh twist and sun dried tomatoes for sweetness and complexity

Instructions

Sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes:

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a saucepan. Add the thinly sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook gently until the garlic turns a light golden brown about 3 to 5 minutes. Be vigilant as garlic can burn quickly which makes it bitter. If it cooks faster than the pasta remove the pan from heat temporarily to prevent burning.

Cook the spaghetti until al dente:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Combine pasta and garlic oil:

Using tongs transfer the cooked spaghetti directly into the saucepan with the garlic infused olive oil. Add about 1/4 cup of reserved hot pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles. Toss gently over medium heat for a minute or two until most of the water has evaporated and the pasta is coated evenly.

Adjust seasoning and garnish:

Taste the pasta and add salt or extra red pepper flakes if desired. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and shaved parmesan cheese or your choice of lemon zest or sun dried tomatoes. Serve immediately for the best experience.

The garlic is the superstar here. I remember once burning it by stepping away for just a moment and the entire dish tasted bitter. Since then I never leave garlic cooking unattended. It’s that goldenbrown caramelization that brings the nutty deep flavor that defines this pasta.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to bring back the silky texture. Microwaving is convenient but can make the pasta slightly drier.

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have spaghetti linguine or fettuccine are great alternatives as their similar shape holds the sauce well. For spice crushed red pepper flakes can be swapped for a dash of cayenne pepper or fresh chili slices if you prefer fresh heat. Spaghetti aglio e olio comes alive when you use fresh garlic and a good quality olive oil. I always pick garlic cloves that are firm with tight skin and look for olive oil labeled extra virgin cold pressed if possible since it makes a big difference in flavor.

Serving suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. Garlic bread on the side turns your plate into a restaurant style Italian dinner. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp makes it a more substantial entree.

This simple spaghetti aglio e olio is quick and satisfying and highlights the flavor of quality ingredients. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Traditional spaghetti is ideal, but linguine, fettuccine, or any long pasta you have can be used with excellent results.

→ How do I avoid burning the garlic?

Keep the garlic sautéing at medium heat and watch closely until it turns light golden brown, removing it promptly to prevent bitterness.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, use less crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer milder flavors or omit them entirely for no heat.

→ What are good garnishes for this pasta?

Fresh chopped parsley, shaved parmesan, lemon zest, and sun-dried tomatoes enhance the taste and presentation.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or in the microwave.

→ Can this dish be customized with proteins or veggies?

Adding grilled chicken, anchovies, sausages, or roasted vegetables makes the dish heartier and more balanced.