Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: A Classic Italian Recipe
Aglio e Olio
This classic pasta dish is made with garlic, olive oil, chili flakes and fresh parsley – all ingredients that are usually already in your kitchen! Not only is it simple to make but its flavor packs a punch. From the spicy kick of the chili flakes to the smoothness of the olive oil, this dish will tantalize your taste buds. Read on to learn how to make this classic Italian recipe at home!
The Origins of Aglio e Olio
Aglio e olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that has been around for centuries. While its exact origin is unknown, it’s believed to have originated in the southern regions of Italy where garlic and olive oil were widely used ingredients in cooking. It was traditionally served as a simple side dish but today, it’s become a popular main course option. It’s easy to see why – this delicious dish can be made with just five basic ingredients and takes only minutes to prepare!
The Key Ingredient: Garlic
Garlic gives aglio e olio its distinct flavor so it’s important not to skimp when adding it into the mix. To get maximum flavor out of your garlic cloves, crush them gently with a knife or press them through a garlic press before cooking them in hot olive oil. Be sure not to burn them as they can quickly become bitter if overcooked. Once cooked until golden brown and fragrant, remove from heat and set aside for later use.
Make It Spicy With Chili Flakes
For an extra kick, add some chili flakes to the mix. Not only do they give this dish its spicy flavor, but it also helps balance out the garlic and olive oil. For a milder version of aglio e olio, reduce the amount of chili flakes called for in the recipe or leave them out entirely.
Finishing Touches With Fresh Parsley
To finish off this classic Italian pasta dish, add some freshly chopped parsley at the end. The bright green color will make it look even more appetizing while adding an extra layer of fragrance and flavor. Add as much as you like – there’s no right or wrong when it comes to adding parsley!
SEE THE FULL RECIPE BELOW!
spaghetti aglio e olio
Course: MainCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes25
minutes630
kcal30
minutesThis classic pasta dish is made with garlic, olive oil, chili flakes and fresh parsley – all ingredients that are usually already in your kitchen! Not only is it simple to make but its flavor packs a punch. From the spicy kick of the chili flakes to the smoothness of the olive oil, this dish will tantalize your taste buds. Read on to learn how to make this classic Italian recipe at home!
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Ingredients
250 grams 250 Uncooked Spaghetti Pasta
1/2 cup 1/2 Olive Oil
1 head 1 Garlic (peeled and thinly sliced)
1/4 tsp 1/4 Chili Flakes
1/2 cup 1/2 Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
1 small 1 Fresh Lemon
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Directions
- Bring to a boil a big pot of lightly salted water.
- Cook the spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring it from time to time for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until it is done but still firm to the bite.
- Drain the pasta and put it in a bowl.
- While the pasta is cooking, mix olive oil and garlic in a cold skillet.
- Cook garlic over medium heat for about 8 minutes to slowly toast it.
- When the olive oil starts to bubble, turn the heat down to medium-low.
- Cook and stir for another 4 minutes, or until the garlic is golden brown.
- Add the chili flakes and pasta, and stir for 1 minute. Turn off the heat.
- Mix the parsley and lemon juice together. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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