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Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Italian dish, known as “Aglio e Olio,” is simple yet packed with flavor. Made with just a few pantry staplesโ€”pasta, olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakesโ€”this dish comes together quickly for an easy weeknight meal. Itโ€™s light, delicious, and perfect on its own or with added protein like shrimp or chicken.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of choice)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Lemon zest (optional, for extra freshness)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ยฝ cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the garlic oil: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sautรฉ until it turns golden brown, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
  3. Add spice: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
  4. Combine pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to coat everything evenly.
  5. Season and finish: Stir in salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. If using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest for extra flavor.
  6. Serve immediately: Enjoy warm, garnished with extra parsley or cheese if desired.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautรฉed mushrooms.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.