Spaghetti Aglio E Olio

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a classic Italian dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe showcases the beauty of garlic and olive oil, combined with al dente spaghetti for a delightful meal. The dish isn't only quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, but it also packs a punch of flavor that will impress your family and friends.

Garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, it's a dish that's both comforting and elegant. The secret to a perfect Aglio E Olio lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using good quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic will elevate this dish to new heights.

This recipe is also highly customizable; you can add in ingredients like sautéed vegetables or protein to make it more substantial. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

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)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti in a colander.
2. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn it, which can result in a bitter taste.
3. Once the garlic is ready, add the red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt to the oil. Stir for about 30 seconds to infuse the oil with flavor.
4. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the frying pan with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the oil, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to help loosen the sauce and guarantee it clings to the spaghetti.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve the spaghetti in a large bowl, garnished with additional parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Enjoy your deliciously simple meal!

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