Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
Quick Answer
This Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil dish is a quick, flavorful recipe that embodies the comfort of the holidays, perfect for any gathering.
As I prepare my kitchen for the cozy holiday season, there's something undeniably comforting about a dish that perfectly captures the essence of simplicity and flavor. Living in New York City, where every corner offers a culinary delight, I often find myself gravitating back to the basics, especially as Thanksgiving and Christmas approach. One dish that never fails to impress friends and family-and that's incredibly easy to whip up even when I'm busy prepping for festivities-is Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio e Olio).
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute dish.
- Deliciously simple with just a handful of ingredients.
- Customizable to suit your heat preference.
- A comforting classic that brings friends and family together.
- Perfectly pairs with a variety of sides, enhancing your meal.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil:
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 6 cloves of garlic, sliced thinly
- ½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Step-by-Step)
This classic Italian dish is easy to prepare and bursts with flavor. Follow these steps to create a delightful meal.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. You want it to taste like the sea! Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. I prefer using a high-quality spaghetti like Barilla or a local artisan brand, which works beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Oil
While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown and aromatic-this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Step 3: Mix It Together
Once the pasta is ready, reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining it. Toss the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic oil. Use tongs to mix everything well, ensuring each strand of spaghetti is coated in that silky, fragrant oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Add the Heat
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this stage and stir to combine. The heat will complement the subtle sweetness of garlic wonderfully.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste and season with salt as needed. Plate the spaghetti and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If desired, add some grated Parmesan on top-nothing like a bit of cheesy goodness!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Burning the Garlic: Keep the heat at medium and watch closely. It should be golden, not brown.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook until al dente. You want that perfect bite!
- Not Adding Enough Salt: The pasta water should be salty enough to season the spaghetti. Adjust as needed for flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- If you want to take it up a notch, add freshly squeezed lemon juice or zest for a touch of brightness.
- For a heartier meal, toss in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
- This dish is a fantastic last-minute option; it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
Variations
- Substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta like linguine or fettuccine.
- Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra nutrition.
- Incorporate different herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor.
How to Serve
- Plate the spaghetti and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy texture.
- Serve with a lemon wedge on the side for a zesty kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: The garlic oil can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
During my testing, I discovered that the key lies in the quality of the ingredients-good olive oil and fresh garlic make all the difference. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most profound, especially when shared around the table during the holidays.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 plate
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 10g protein · 50g carbs · 18g fat
Recipe by:
Quick and Flavorful Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the garlic oil, mixing well.
- Add red pepper flakes and stir to combine. Season with salt as needed. Plate and garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
While spaghetti is traditional for Aglio e Olio, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as linguine or fettuccine.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like it spicy, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic oil.
3. Is there a vegetarian option for the Parmesan cheese?
Yes! Look for vegan or vegetarian Parmesan options in stores that are made without animal rennet.
4. Can I add proteins to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions for extra protein.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water.
