Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a super easy Italian dish that turns a few simple ingredients into something totally delicious. This awesome pasta recipe comes from Naples and uses olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to make a yummy sauce that sticks to perfectly cooked spaghetti. Add some fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and you’ve got a light, tasty meal that feels special.
It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something fancy without much work. Plus, you can add your own twist, like tossing in shrimp or extra veggies, to make it even more fun to eat.
See also: 20 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes
Why You’ll Love Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This dish is a testament to the beauty of minimalism in cooking. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a meal that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
The key lies in technique, gently sautéing garlic in olive oil to release its aroma without burning, and using red pepper flakes to add a subtle kick. The result is a silky sauce that coats each strand of spaghetti, delivering bold flavors in every bite.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Watching your weight? Pair this dish with Moringa Actives, a supplement designed to support healthy weight management and metabolism.
Following a keto diet? Try NuviaLab Keto to enhance fat metabolism while enjoying a modified version of this recipe. Whatever your lifestyle, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio fits seamlessly into your routine.
Ingredients
To make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio for 4 servings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Spaghetti – 12 oz (¾ pound)
- Extra virgin olive oil – ⅓ cup
- Garlic – 4–5 cloves, thinly sliced
- Red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Parsley – ¼ cup, finely chopped
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated (optional)
- Salt – for pasta water and seasoning
- Black pepper – to taste (optional)
Pro Tip: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, as it’s a star ingredient in this dish. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese also makes a noticeable difference.
See also: Best Jambalaya Recipe
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You don’t need a fully stocked kitchen to make this dish, but the following tools will make the process smoother:
- Large pot – for boiling pasta
- Colander – to drain the pasta
- Large skillet – for making the sauce
- Tongs – for tossing pasta
- Garlic press – optional, for mincing garlic
- Cheese grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese
- Measuring cups – for precise oil measurement
- Measuring spoons – for red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt—the water should taste slightly salty.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, heat ⅓ cup of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns golden but not brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Use tongs to toss the pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water (start with ¼ cup) to create a silky sauce. Toss again to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
- Divide the pasta among plates and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if using.
- Serve immediately with a side of Fibre Select mixed into a glass of water to support digestion and overall health.
See also: Easy Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
- Carbohydrates: 60g (Sugars: 2g)
- Protein: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands. For better blood sugar control while enjoying this dish, consider NuviaLab Sugar Control to stabilize glucose levels.
Recipe Variations
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some creative twists to try:
Lemon Zest and Anchovies
Add the zest of one lemon and 2–3 finely chopped anchovies to the garlic and oil mixture for a bright, umami-packed variation. The anchovies melt into the sauce, adding depth without a fishy taste.
Shrimp Aglio e Olio
Sauté ½ pound of peeled shrimp in the skillet before adding the garlic. Cook until pink, then proceed with the recipe. This protein boost pairs well with Keto Actives for those on a ketogenic diet.
Broccoli and Pine Nuts
Steam 2 cups of broccoli florets and toast ¼ cup of pine nuts. Toss them with the pasta for added texture and nutrition. Support your weight loss goals with Green Coffee 5K alongside this variation.
Spicy Herb Blend
Replace red pepper flakes with a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper for a more complex heat. Pair with Fat Burn Active to enhance fat metabolism.
See also: The Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Tips for Success
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Keep the heat low to medium-low when sautéing garlic. Burnt garlic ruins the dish’s flavor.
- Use Pasta Water Wisely: The starchy water helps emulsify the oil into a cohesive sauce. Add it gradually to avoid a watery dish.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Since this recipe has few components, opt for fresh parsley and high-quality olive oil.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the red pepper flakes and salt to suit your palate.
For those looking to maintain energy levels while cooking, try Cappuccino MCT, a slimming coffee that boosts metabolism and focus.
Pairing Suggestions
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio pairs beautifully with simple sides and beverages:
- Salad: A crisp arugula salad with lemon juice and olive oil.
- Bread: Crusty baguette for soaking up the sauce.
- Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Supplement: Sip on Matcha Extreme tea to support detoxification and weight control.
See also: Best Pork Fried Rice Recipe
FAQs About Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
.ot 1: Can I make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio gluten-free?
Yes, substitute spaghetti with gluten-free spaghetti. Ensure all other ingredients, like Parmesan cheese, are gluten-free certified.
2: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water to revive the sauce. Support gut health with Probiosin Plus to aid digestion.
3: Can I make this dish vegan?
Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. The dish is naturally plant-based otherwise.
4: How spicy is Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?
The spice level depends on the amount of red pepper flakes used. Start with ¼ teaspoon for mild heat and adjust upward. For appetite control, try Crave Burner.
5: Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta work well. Match with Collagen Select for healthy skin and hair.
See also: The Best Homemade Chili Con Carne
Conclusion
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Its quick preparation and bold flavors make it a staple for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Experiment with the variations, pair it with your favorite sides, and elevate your wellness routine with supplements like Night Mega Burner for fat reduction or Lipid Control Plus for heart health.
Ready to take your cooking to the next level? Explore more recipes and wellness tips on our blog, and don’t forget to stock your kitchen with quality tools and ingredients from Amazon. Buon appetito!
Looking for more pasta recipes? Here are a few of my faves:
- Easy Alfredo Sauce Recipe
- Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
- Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
