Spaghetti with garlic oil

This spaghetti aglio e olio recipe is a simple and satisfying Italian classic that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes. It combines the robust flavor of garlic with the richness of olive oil for a comforting weeknight meal that never fails to please.

I first made this on a busy weeknight when I had little time but big cravings. The ease and aroma filled the kitchen quickly and now its one of my goto comfort foods that everyone in my family enjoys.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: Traditional choice providing that ideal chewy texture select highquality durum wheat pasta for best results
• Good olive oil: The star of the dish choose extra virgin olive oil for its fruity, peppery notes that enhance the garlic
• Large garlic cloves: Thinly sliced for maximum flavor release fresh garlic adds that essential nutty and aromatic taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle heat adjust amount or skip if sensitive to spice
• Pasta water: The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce for a glossy finish and better coating of the pasta
• Optional garnishes: Shaved parmesan cheese chopped parsley sun dried tomatoes or a squeeze of lemon zest add freshness and complexity

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook the garlic slowly and carefully keeping a close eye on it until it turns light golden brown to avoid any bitterness from burning. Move the pan off the heat if the pasta is not ready yet to preserve that perfect garlic flavor.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente usually about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the package instructions. Salted water seasons the pasta from within so do not skip this step.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Using tongs transfer the hot spaghetti directly into the pan with the garlic and olive oil mixture. Add about one quarter cup of reserved pasta water to the pan. Toss the pasta over medium heat for a couple of minutes until the water evaporates and the sauce clings beautifully to each strand.

Final Seasoning and Garnish:

Taste the pasta and season with salt or extra red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish generously with chopped parsley and shaved parmesan or any optional toppings you prefer. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

The garlic in this dish is my absolute favorite part. Watching it transform in the olive oil releasing its aroma is truly satisfying and reminds me of the simple joys in cooking. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day and every time I prepare it I feel connected to traditional Italian cooking and family gatherings.

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 or in the microwave stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from drying out. Avoid freezing if possible as the texture may become mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap spaghetti with linguine fettuccine or any pasta you have on hand—the technique remains the same and the dish just as satisfying. For olive oil extra virgin is best but a highquality light olive oil works in a pinch. If you don’t have red pepper flakes a pinch of cayenne powder can be used for heat or leave it out entirely.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread makes a wonderful accompaniment to soak up every last bit of the flavorful oil. For protein add ons try grilled chicken sautéed shrimp or even canned anchovies for an umami boost.

Serve immediately and enjoy the simple bold flavors that make this dish a family favorite. Small technique choices like garlic thickness and reserved pasta water make a big difference.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Spaghetti is traditionally used, but linguine or fettuccine can also work well with the garlic and olive oil sauce.

→ How can I prevent garlic from burning while cooking?

Cook the garlic over medium heat and watch closely, removing it from heat as soon as it turns golden brown to avoid bitterness.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness in this pasta?

Yes, adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your taste, or omit them altogether if preferred.

→ What are some good garnishes for extra flavor?

Fresh chopped parsley, shaved parmesan, lemon zest or juice, and even spinach or kale complement this dish nicely.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat gently with a splash of water either on the stove or microwave.