Go Back
To make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, you need simple yet key items. Here’s what you will need: - 400g spaghetti - 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - Salt, to taste These ingredients create a dish that is full of flavor. The garlic and olive oil form the base of this recipe. You can add a few extra items to boost the taste: - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Zest of 1 lemon - Juice of 1 lemon - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving) Adding lemon zest and juice adds a bright touch. Parmesan cheese gives a creamy finish if you choose to use it. If you don’t have some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some easy swaps: - Use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti for a healthier option. - If you lack fresh garlic, try garlic powder, but use less. - For a spicy kick, substitute the red pepper flakes with chopped fresh chili peppers. These swaps keep the spirit of the dish while making it work for your kitchen. For the full recipe, check out Garlic Delight Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. Start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add a good pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil. Add 400g of spaghetti. Cook it until it is al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Before you drain the spaghetti, save about 1 cup of the pasta water. This water helps make the sauce creamy. In a large skillet, pour in 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Add 6 cloves of thinly sliced garlic. Stir in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook this mix gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. Watch the garlic closely. You want it golden, not brown. Burned garlic can taste bitter. Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Toss the spaghetti well to coat it in the oil. If it seems dry, add some reserved pasta water. Just a little at a time until it feels right. Next, add the juice and zest of 1 lemon. Toss again to mix it well. Finally, season with salt to taste. If you want more heat, add more red pepper flakes. For a nice finish, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if you like. This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to impress! To get the best garlic flavor, slice your garlic thin. This helps it cook evenly. I like to use 6 cloves for a strong taste. Sauté the garlic slowly in olive oil. Cook it until it turns golden, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely! If it burns, the dish may taste bitter. You want a nice, rich flavor without the bitterness. Red pepper flakes add a nice kick. Start with 1 teaspoon; you can always add more later. If you want more heat, sprinkle in a bit more. Taste as you go! This way, you can find the perfect balance. Each bite should be flavorful but not overpowering. For serving, I love to garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and freshness. A sprinkle of lemon zest also brightens the dish. If you like cheese, add grated Parmesan on top. Serve it hot and enjoy! Pair it with a light salad or bread for a full meal. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. {{image_2}} You can easily add protein to your spaghetti. Shrimp cooks fast and tastes great. Just sauté it with the garlic for a few minutes. Chicken is another option. Grill or pan-sear it before adding to the dish. For a plant-based choice, use tofu. Cook it until it's golden, then mix it in. Each protein adds its own flavor boost. Adding veggies makes spaghetti more colorful and healthy. Spinach wilts quickly. Toss it in with the pasta for a fresh touch. Broccoli adds crunch and nutrition. Steam or sauté it before mixing. Peas are sweet and fun. Stir them in right before serving for a pop of color. For a twist, try sun-dried tomatoes. They add a tangy kick. Chop them up and mix them in with the pasta. Olives give a briny taste that contrasts well with garlic. Slice them and fold them in before serving. These add depth and a unique flair to your dish. For the full recipe, check out the Garlic Delight Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. To keep your leftover spaghetti aglio e olio fresh, place it in an airtight container. Let it cool before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat it later, do not add the cheese until you're ready to serve. When you are ready to eat your leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water. This keeps the dish moist and tasty. Stir often until it's warm. You can also microwave it, covered, for about one to two minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating. If you want to freeze spaghetti aglio e olio, it’s best to do so without the cheese. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze it for up to two months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as described above to bring back the flavors. You can find the full recipe to make spaghetti aglio e olio and enjoy it fresh! Spaghetti Aglio e Olio comes from Italy, specifically Naples. The dish started as a simple meal for workers. It uses just a few key ingredients: pasta, garlic, olive oil, and chili. This dish shows how basic ingredients can create great flavor. Over time, it became popular for its ease and taste. People love it for quick dinners and late-night snacks. Yes, you can make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio vegan. The traditional recipe is mostly vegan already. Just skip the Parmesan cheese when serving. Use the same garlic and olive oil base. You can also add more veggies for flavor and nutrition. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley work well as a garnish. This way, you still enjoy a tasty meal without animal products. To make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer good options made from rice or corn. Cook it just like regular pasta. Follow the same steps for making the sauce with garlic and olive oil. This way, you can enjoy this classic dish without gluten. The flavors will still shine through, making it a great choice for everyone. For the full recipe, check out the details above. This blog post covered the simple yet tasty Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. We explored the must-have ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for the best flavor. You learned about variations to customize your dish and how to store leftovers. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is easy to make and adaptable. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious meal. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and share your tasty creations!

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Indulge in a simple yet delicious Garlic Delight Spaghetti Aglio e Olio that will make your taste buds sing! This easy recipe features spaghetti, sautéed garlic, red pepper flakes, and a fresh zing from lemon. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful meal perfect for any night. Ready to impress your family or guests? Click through to explore this mouthwatering recipe and elevate your dinner game!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

400g spaghetti

6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently until the garlic turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

      Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the garlic-oil mixture. Toss to coat the spaghetti evenly in the oil.

        Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

          Flavor Boost: Add the lemon juice and lemon zest to the pasta, tossing well to combine. Season with salt to taste and adjust the red pepper flakes if more heat is desired.

            Serve: Plate the spaghetti and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

              Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 20 min | Servings: 4