Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a simple pasta dish, especially when it’s infused with the delightful aroma of garlic and the richness of olive oil. This Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil, also known as “aglio e olio,” is a classic Italian recipe that is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish highlights the beauty of quality ingredients. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of garlic and pasta!
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 100ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later.
- While the pasta is cooking, pour the extra virgin olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the pan, sautéing it gently until it turns golden brown and releases its fragrant aroma. Be careful here; you want it golden, not burnt!
- Next, stir in the red pepper flakes and let them mingle with the garlic in the skillet for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
- With the garlic and oil mixture ready, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it in the garlicky goodness to ensure every strand is coated. This is where the magic happens!
- If the pasta seems a bit dry or you prefer a saucier dish, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season the dish with salt to taste, and then fold in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve your pasta immediately, generous with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a zesty touch of lemon zest on top for that extra pop of flavor.
Notes or Tips
This dish is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to add cooked shrimp or sautéed vegetables for added texture and taste. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes entirely. Also, remember that using high-quality olive oil can really enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
Cooking Techniques
One of the key techniques in this recipe is the perfect sautéing of garlic. Monitor the heat closely to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish. Additionally, reserving the pasta water is crucial; the starchy water serves as a perfect binder to help the sauce cling to the spaghetti!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you love, such as linguine or fettuccine.
What can I pair with this pasta dish? A fresh salad or some crusty garlic bread would make a lovely accompaniment. For a wine pairing, consider a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Conclusion
With its simplicity and rich flavors, this Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quiet dinner at home or serving it to guests, it’s a delightful reminder of how sometimes the simplest meals can be the most satisfying. Enjoy every bite!