Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Italian Recipe– Quick & Flavorful Pasta

If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just someone who loves a quick and satisfying meal, then spaghetti aglio e olio is a must-try recipe. This iconic Italian dish, whose name translates to “spaghetti with garlic and oil,” is both simple and delicious. Made with just a few basic ingredients—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes—it’s a perfect choice for those busy weeknights or when you need a meal that doesn’t require much preparation but still delivers bold, rich flavors.

In this article, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to making the perfect spaghetti aglio e olio, share some helpful tips, and answer some frequently asked questions to make your cooking experience as smooth as possible.

Ingredients for Italian Pasta

To make this simple yet flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

200 grams (7 oz) of spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions. Make sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—it will help create the sauce later.

2. Prepare the Garlic and Oil

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté it gently. Be sure not to burn it; you want the garlic to become golden and fragrant, not brown. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from sticking to the pan.

3. Add Red Pepper Flakes

Once the garlic has become golden and fragrant (after about 2 minutes), add the red pepper flakes to the oil. Stir everything together and let the flakes infuse the oil for about 30 seconds.

4. Combine the Pasta and Oil

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it gently with the garlic and oil. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to the skillet, one tablespoon at a time, to create a silky sauce that coats the spaghetti.

5. Season and Serve

Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is well combined, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately!

Recipe Notes

Garlic: The key to this dish is infusing the olive oil with garlic. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic cloves to intensify the flavor.
Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save the pasta water before draining! This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, making it smooth and creamy without the need for cream or butter.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred level of heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and taste as you go.

Time and Serving Information

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2–3

How to Serve

Spaghetti aglio e olio is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways:

Classic Style: Serve it as a simple, stand-alone meal with a side of crispy garlic bread and a green salad.
Add Protein: For added protein, consider topping the pasta with grilled shrimp, chicken, or even tofu.
Make it a Feast: If you’re preparing for a larger group, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet for cooking garlic and pasta
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Tongs or pasta server for transferring pasta to the skillet

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to bring it back to life.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Calories: 400–450
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 400mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.

Extra Tips for a Perfect Recipe

Use Quality Olive Oil: Since this dish is all about the olive oil, use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Overcooked garlic can become bitter, so watch it closely. You want it golden and fragrant, not burnt.
Go Light on Salt: Since you’re using pasta water, you might not need much salt. Taste as you go!

FAQs About Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like. Linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well too.

Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.

If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with basil or oregano, which also pair nicely with the garlic and olive oil.

While it’s best served fresh, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat gently, adding a little olive oil or pasta water.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti aglio e olio is the epitome of simple Italian cooking—quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect go-to meal for those evenings when you need something comforting but don’t have a lot of time or ingredients. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite protein or vegetables to make it your own.

Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or a seasoned pro, spaghetti aglio e olio is a dish you’ll keep coming back to. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and enjoy this tasty, flavorful pasta!