International Cuisine > Italian Cuisine > Pasta Dishes > Aglio e Olio Recipe

Classic Aglio e Olio

A simple yet flavorful Italian pasta dish made with garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and parsley. Ready in under 20 minutes!

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
2
Ingredients
  • 200 g Spaghetti
  • 6 cloves Garlic
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 1 cup Pasta Water

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Avoid mincing or crushing the garlic, as slicing allows for a more even and controlled flavor release during cooking.

Sauté the Garlic and Chili

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Toss to coat well. Add a little of the reserved pasta water at a time, tossing continuously, until the sauce emulsifies and coats the pasta in a silky sauce. This usually takes about 1/2 to 1 cup of pasta water.

Add Parsley and Season

Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.

Serve Immediately

Serve the Aglio e Olio immediately, garnished with additional parsley and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Grated Parmesan cheese is optional, but not traditionally used.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal <br>Protein: 8-10g <br>Fat: 12-15g (primarily from olive oil) <br>Carbohydrates: 30-35g <br>Fiber: 2-3g <br><br>Note: These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

  • Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits. Olive oil is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • Garlic: Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Sodium: Be mindful of the amount of salt you add, especially if you are watching your sodium intake.
  • Pasta: Choose whole wheat pasta for a higher fiber content.

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FAQ

  • Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

    While Aglio e Olio is traditionally a simple dish, you can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. Add them to the skillet after the garlic and cook until tender.
  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

    Yes, you can use other long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine. The cooking time may vary depending on the pasta.
  • How can I make this dish vegan?

    Aglio e Olio is naturally vegan, as it doesn't contain any animal products.