Description
A simple and flavorful Italian classic, Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil is an easy, budget-friendly pasta dish bursting with aromatic garlic, spicy chili flakes, and fresh parsley. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal anytime.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 grams) spaghetti or other long pasta
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 4-5 garlic cloves, finely sliced
- 1 tsp dried chili flakes, or to taste (or 3 fresh chillies, deseeded and finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve (optional, omit for vegan)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, which means the pasta is tender but still slightly firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta brand. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil gently in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili flakes (or fresh chopped chilies). Cook gently for a few minutes, stirring often, until the garlic becomes pale golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Stir in the chopped parsley to infuse the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the spaghetti, then add it directly to the frying pan with the infused oil, garlic, and chili. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Add some of the reserved starchy cooking water, a little at a time, to loosen up the sauce and make the spaghetti moist and succulent.
- Finish Cooking: Cook the mixture on medium heat for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally. This helps the pasta absorb the flavors and bind the sauce to the noodles.
- Serve: Transfer the spaghetti to serving plates. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be cautious when cooking garlic; gently infusing it without browning or burning is key to a delicious sauce.
- If using fresh chilies, remove the seeds to reduce heat intensity.
- You can adjust the chili amount to your spice preference or omit it for a milder version.
- For a vegan dish, omit the parmesan or use vegan cheese alternatives.
- Reserve pasta water is important for loosening and binding the sauce.
