Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package directions.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid is key to bringing the sauce together.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it becomes golden and fragrant — about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely — you want golden, not burnt.
Step 3: Add Red Pepper Flakes
- Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to infuse the oil with heat.
- Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance — a little goes a long way!
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water.
- Toss everything together gently using tongs or a spoon, allowing the oil to coat every strand. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley & Parmesan
- Remove from heat. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust salt to taste.
- Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top — or leave it off for a traditional dairy-free version.
- Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest for brightness.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating:
Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of olive oil or water to revive the texture. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep it silky. Tip: Leftovers make an amazing base for pasta salad the next day — just add cherry tomatoes or arugula! 🥄 Variations
Elevate or adapt the base recipe with these creative spins: Lemony Aglio e Olio: Add lemon zest and a tablespoon of juice at the end Protein Boost: Stir in shrimp, grilled chicken, or chickpeas Veggie Version: Add spinach, blistered tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms Crunchy Topping: Finish with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts Cheese-Lovers’ Style: Use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano Vegan-Friendly: Omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative Spicy Garlic Butter: Replace some olive oil with butter for a rich finish ❓ 10 FAQs
1. Is Parmesan traditional in Aglio e Olio?
Traditionally, no. But adding Parmesan makes it richer and more satisfying — especially if you're not a purist. 2. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is key. Garlic powder won’t provide the same bold, aromatic flavor. 3. How do I keep garlic from burning?
Cook over medium heat and stir constantly. Burnt garlic turns bitter — golden is what you want. 4. Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes! Linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair work well, though spaghetti is classic. 5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta — the sauce is naturally gluten-free. 6. What olive oil is best?
Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil — it's the heart of the dish. 7. Is this dish spicy?
Only mildly. You control the heat with the amount of red pepper flakes. 8. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure your skillet is big enough to toss the pasta well. 9. Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh, but you can make and store it for later — reheat gently and refresh with oil and parsley. 10. Can kids enjoy this dish?
Yes — just reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version. 🏁 Conclusion
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil proves that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most memorable meals. With just pasta, garlic, olive oil, and a few seasonings, you can create a dish that’s fast, elegant, and comforting. Whether it’s a midnight craving, a meatless Monday, or a dinner party starter, this recipe will never let you down. Try it once, and you’ll have a new staple in your kitchen repertoire — guaranteed.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating:
Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of olive oil or water to revive the texture. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep it silky. Tip: Leftovers make an amazing base for pasta salad the next day — just add cherry tomatoes or arugula! 🥄 Variations
Elevate or adapt the base recipe with these creative spins: Lemony Aglio e Olio: Add lemon zest and a tablespoon of juice at the end Protein Boost: Stir in shrimp, grilled chicken, or chickpeas Veggie Version: Add spinach, blistered tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms Crunchy Topping: Finish with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts Cheese-Lovers’ Style: Use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano Vegan-Friendly: Omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative Spicy Garlic Butter: Replace some olive oil with butter for a rich finish ❓ 10 FAQs
1. Is Parmesan traditional in Aglio e Olio?
Traditionally, no. But adding Parmesan makes it richer and more satisfying — especially if you're not a purist. 2. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is key. Garlic powder won’t provide the same bold, aromatic flavor. 3. How do I keep garlic from burning?
Cook over medium heat and stir constantly. Burnt garlic turns bitter — golden is what you want. 4. Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes! Linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair work well, though spaghetti is classic. 5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta — the sauce is naturally gluten-free. 6. What olive oil is best?
Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil — it's the heart of the dish. 7. Is this dish spicy?
Only mildly. You control the heat with the amount of red pepper flakes. 8. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure your skillet is big enough to toss the pasta well. 9. Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh, but you can make and store it for later — reheat gently and refresh with oil and parsley. 10. Can kids enjoy this dish?
Yes — just reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version. 🏁 Conclusion
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil proves that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most memorable meals. With just pasta, garlic, olive oil, and a few seasonings, you can create a dish that’s fast, elegant, and comforting. Whether it’s a midnight craving, a meatless Monday, or a dinner party starter, this recipe will never let you down. Try it once, and you’ll have a new staple in your kitchen repertoire — guaranteed.