How to Perfect Pasta Aglio e Olio: Step-by-Step Recipe, Tips, and Pairings
A classic Italian dish combining spaghetti with garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, parsley, and Parmesan for a flavorful, simple meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
– 1 pound dried spaghetti
– ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 12 garlic cloves, sliced
– 2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
– ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
– ½ cup Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté garlic until golden brown.
3. Add red pepper flakes, then toss in cooked pasta.
4. Stir in pasta water for a silky sauce.
5. Remove from heat and mix in parsley, lemon juice, and Parmesan.
6. Adjust seasoning, garnish, and serve.
Notes
– Avoid burning garlic; cook on medium-low heat.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
– Customize with add-ins like shrimp or kale.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg