Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is the epitome of simplicity and elegance in Italian cooking.
This timeless dish, hailing from Naples, combines just a handful of pantry staples—garlic, olive oil, spaghetti, and red pepper flakes—into a harmonious and flavorful meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste.
The garlicky aroma, the silky olive oil-coated pasta, and the subtle heat from the chili flakes make this dish unforgettable.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a must-have recipe in your repertoire.
What is Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio translates to “spaghetti with garlic and oil.” This traditional Italian pasta dish celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients.
Originating from Naples, it reflects the heart of Mediterranean cooking: fresh, flavorful, and uncomplicated.
The key components—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes—are cooked together to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
While it’s perfect on its own, it can also be customized with a variety of add-ins like parsley, Parmesan, or seafood.
Why You’ll Love Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Simplicity at its Best: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet meal in under 20 minutes.
- Incredibly Versatile: Pair it with a fresh salad, add protein like shrimp or chicken, or enjoy it as is.
- Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it an affordable yet impressive dish.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic-infused olive oil and spicy chili flakes creates a robust and unforgettable flavor profile.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party, this dish always shines.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Spaghetti: The heart of the dish; opt for high-quality pasta for the best results.
- Garlic: Thinly sliced to release its aromatic flavors.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Provides richness and coats the spaghetti beautifully.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a hint of heat to balance the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and freshness.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): For a creamy, cheesy touch.
- Salt: To season the pasta water and enhance the dish’s flavors.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: For boiling the spaghetti.
- Large Skillet: To prepare the garlic-infused olive oil and toss the pasta.
- Tongs: For mixing the pasta with the sauce.
- Colander: To drain the pasta while reserving some pasta water.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the garlic.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
2. Prepare the Garlic-Infused Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Add the Chili Flakes
Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for about 30 seconds to release their heat and aroma.
4. Toss the Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet.
Toss the pasta with the garlic oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and toss in chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor, if preferred.
Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Use High-Quality Ingredients
The simplicity of this dish means each ingredient shines. Opt for premium extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic for the best flavor. - Cook Pasta to Al Dente
Al dente pasta has a slightly firm bite, which is essential for achieving the perfect texture when tossed with the garlic oil. - Don’t Burn the Garlic
Sauté the garlic on medium heat until it’s golden and fragrant. Overcooking garlic can make it bitter and overpowering. - Reserve Pasta Water
Pasta water contains starch that helps create a silky sauce when mixed with the olive oil. Add it gradually to get the desired consistency. - Balance the Heat
Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preference. Start with a small amount and add more for a spicier kick. - Toss Well
Use tongs to thoroughly coat the spaghetti with the garlic oil mixture, ensuring every strand is infused with flavor.
How to Serve Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- As a Standalone Dish
Serve Spaghetti Aglio e Olio on its own as a light, flavorful main course. - Pair with Protein
Complement the dish with grilled shrimp, chicken breast, or seared scallops for added protein. - Add a Side Salad
A crisp side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich, garlicky pasta. - Serve with Crusty Bread
Accompany the pasta with warm, crusty bread to mop up the flavorful garlic-infused olive oil. - Garnish for Extra Flavor
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a bright, fresh finish.
Health Benefits of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Rich in Healthy Fats
The extra virgin olive oil used in this recipe is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. - Garlic’s Nutritional Benefits
Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and contains compounds that support heart health and reduce inflammation. - Low in Processed Ingredients
Made with simple, whole ingredients, this dish avoids processed foods and artificial additives. - Supports Digestive Health
The combination of garlic and olive oil can aid digestion and promote gut health. - Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates
The pasta provides a good source of complex carbohydrates, giving you a sustained energy boost.
How to Store and Reheat Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Storing
- Allow the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the pasta into an airtight container.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The pasta may absorb some of the olive oil while stored, so it’s best to add a splash of olive oil when reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop Method: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a little pasta water to bring it back to life, tossing frequently until heated through.
- Microwave Method: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of olive oil or water, cover with a microwave-safe lid, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic, timeless dish that combines simple ingredients to create something extraordinary.
Its rich garlic flavor and subtle heat from the chili flakes are what make this dish a favorite for so many.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, an impressive side dish, or a meal that brings comfort and flavor together, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio has you covered.
So, grab your pantry staples and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this easy yet irresistible Italian favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I add vegetables to Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the garlic for a few minutes before mixing with the pasta.
2. Can I make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish gluten-free without compromising on flavor.
3. How can I make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers to elevate the heat level.
4. Can I freeze Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?
While it’s not recommended to freeze Spaghetti Aglio e Olio because pasta can change texture after freezing, you can freeze the garlic oil mixture and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy.
5. What other pasta works for Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?
While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or bucatini, depending on your preference.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for boiling pasta)
- 1 Large skillet or frying pan
- 1 colander (for draining pasta)
- 1 wooden spoon or tongs (for stirring)
- 1 chef’s knife (for chopping garlic and parsley)
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup 60ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup 10g fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup 30g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Garlic Oil:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add Red Pepper Flakes:
- Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their heat.
Combine Pasta and Garlic Oil:
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture. Toss well, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to help the oil coat the pasta evenly.
Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add the chopped parsley and toss to combine. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use Good Olive Oil: The olive oil plays a crucial role in this recipe, so opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for garlic intensity. You can also add minced garlic instead of sliced garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Heat Level: Customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add fresh chopped chilies for a more intense heat.
- Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Extra Protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a poached egg for extra protein if desired.
