Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Have you ever craved a restaurant-quality meal but didn’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen? Spaghetti Aglio e Olio might be your new favorite go-to dish!

This Italian classic is made with just a few pantry staples but delivers big, bold flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or even when you just want something comforting without much effort.

The best part? It takes less than 20 minutes to make! That’s faster than ordering takeout, and you’ll end up with a dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and satisfying.

The combination of garlic-infused olive oil, a little heat from red pepper flakes, and perfectly cooked pasta creates magic in every bite.

As the seasons change, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio fits right in. In the summer, it’s a light and fresh dish you can pair with a crisp salad.

In the colder months, it’s warm and comforting, especially when served with crusty garlic bread. No matter when you make it, this dish will always hit the spot.

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Why You’ll Love It

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You only need a handful of ingredients, but they come together beautifully.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in 20 minutes or less—perfect for busy nights!
• Budget-Friendly: No fancy ingredients required, just pasta, garlic, olive oil, and a few seasonings.
• Customizable: Add protein like shrimp or chicken, toss in veggies, or top with Parmesan cheese.
• A Taste of Italy: This dish is a classic from Naples, bringing authentic Italian flavors straight to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
• Optional: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest for extra flavor

Optional Side Dishes

Garlic Bread

• 1 baguette or Italian bread, sliced
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Simple Green Salad

• 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, or spinach)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is proof that simple food can be incredibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to guests, this dish is sure to impress.

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Kitchen Tools Needed

Making Spaghetti Aglio e Olio doesn’t require any fancy equipment. You probably already have everything you need!

• Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
• Colander – To drain the pasta (remember to save some pasta water!).
• Large skillet or frying pan – For cooking the garlic and infusing the oil.
• Sharp knife – To thinly slice the garlic and chop parsley.
• Cutting board – For prepping ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure you get the right amounts of oil, seasoning, and pasta water.
• Tongs or pasta spoon – For tossing the spaghetti in the sauce.

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt (this flavors the pasta).
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but cooked through).
3. Before draining, scoop out ½ cup of pasta water and set it aside. This will help create the perfect sauce.
4. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Oil

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced garlic and cook gently, stirring often, until it becomes golden and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn it!
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds to release their flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil.
2. Pour in ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together with tongs or a pasta spoon. If the pasta looks dry, add a little more pasta water.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and mix well.
4. Taste and add salt if needed.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Plate the pasta and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest for extra flavor.
2. Serve immediately with garlic bread and a simple green salad on the side.

More Recipes >>>>>> Baked Chicken Thighs

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use fresh garlic – It makes a huge difference in flavor. Pre-minced garlic won’t give you the same rich, aromatic taste.
• Slice garlic thinly, don’t mince – Thin slices cook more evenly and give the oil a delicate garlic flavor without burning.
• Control the heat – Cook the garlic on medium-low heat to avoid burning. Burnt garlic turns bitter and will ruin the dish.
• Don’t skip the pasta water – It helps bind the sauce and gives the pasta a silky texture.
• Al dente is key – Overcooked pasta will turn mushy when mixed with the sauce. Keep it firm!
• Customize your dish – Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is how flexible it is. Here are some ways to customize it to your taste:

Ingredient Substitutions

• Pasta: No spaghetti? Try linguine, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
• Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best, but in a pinch, you can use avocado oil. Avoid butter, as it changes the dish’s flavor.
• Garlic: If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch (use about ½ teaspoon), but fresh is always best.
• Red pepper flakes: Prefer a milder dish? Reduce or skip them. Love spice? Add more or swap in chili oil or fresh chili peppers.
• Parsley: If you don’t have fresh parsley, try basil, arugula, or even baby spinach for a different twist.

Fun Variations

• Lemon Aglio e Olio: Add fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh taste.
• Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Veggie-Packed: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli make great add-ins.
• Cheesy Twist: While traditional Aglio e Olio doesn’t have cheese, adding Parmesan or Pecorino Romano gives it a delicious salty kick.

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Serving Suggestions

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy slice of homemade garlic bread is the perfect match for this dish.
• Side Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing balances out the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a well-rounded dinner.
• Soup Starter: A bowl of tomato soup or minestrone makes a comforting pairing.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlicky flavors.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later:

• Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing, as the olive oil-based sauce doesn’t hold up well.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pan, add the pasta, and stir over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or extra olive oil.
• Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warm.

Pro Tip: Adding a bit of fresh garlic or red pepper flakes while reheating can bring back the dish’s bold flavors!

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FAQ

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap out the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Rice-based and chickpea pasta work well.

2. Is Spaghetti Aglio e Olio spicy?

It has a slight kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to make it milder or spicier.

3. Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?

You can, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If using jarred garlic, you may need to sauté it for less time to prevent burning.

4. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook it on medium-low heat and stir frequently. If it turns brown too fast, remove the pan from the heat and add a splash of pasta water to cool it down.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance (slice the garlic, chop the parsley) to make cooking faster.

6. What can I do if my pasta is too dry?

Add a little more olive oil or reserved pasta water while tossing everything together.

7. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, scallops, or even crispy pancetta work beautifully with this dish.

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Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a dish that proves simplicity can be delicious. Whether you stick to my version or add your own twist, it’s a meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Give it a try and let me know how you enjoyed it!

What’s your favorite way to customize Spaghetti Aglio e Olio? Drop a comment below!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!