Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Recipe

Recipe Pin

I’m back with a beautiful classic Italian delight destined to captivate you with its unique flavors and textures. If Italian food is your jam, then this Spaghetti Aglio E Olio will surely win your heart.

This dish is a true gem of Italian cuisine. My fascination with this recipe began with my Italian friend, who frequently prepares Spaghetti Aglio E Olio. Over time, I adapted her original recipe and added my own twists to perfect it.

Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with all of you so you can bring the taste of Italy to your kitchen in just a few minutes! This dish is a beloved staple among Southern Italian families.

It features simple ingredients and straightforward preparation that results in a hearty flavor. I always whip it up using items I have on hand in my pantry, and you’ll discover the same if you give it a go.

So, let’s dive into the classic Italian flavors together, bringing a depth of taste that will make this dish a beloved favorite.

What's In The Post

Equipments Required

Stock Pot: I recommend using this equipment to easily boil spaghetti.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For consistent and accurate measurements, make sure to use these pieces of equipment.
Knife: I recommend using a sharp knife to slice the garlic precisely.
Strainer: I suggest using a strainer to easily strain the spaghetti once it’s cooked.
Frying pan: Use a frying pan to evenly toss the spaghetti.
Tongs: Consider using tongs to mix your spaghetti and sauce evenly.

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Ingredients & Substitutions

Note: The quantities of the ingredients mentioned below are enough to serve two portions of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio.

1 Cup of Spaghetti Pasta
1 Tablespoon of Olive Oil: I use butter for a rich and creamy touch, and I recommend you do the same. However, ensure that you use unsalted butter.
1 Teaspoon of Parmesan Cheese: For a sharp, tangy, and robust flavor, try using cheddar cheese.
2 Cloves of Garlic, finely chopped: I always use garlic powder or garlic salts for a rich umami and less intense flavor, or you can even use shallots if you don’t have garlic.
1 Teaspoon of Parsley, finely chopped: I even recommend using cilantro, thyme, or basil to enrich the herby flavor.
1 Teaspoon of Chili Flakes: You can even try using chili powder, if you wish to have an extra spicy touch.
1 Teaspoon of Black Pepper: I suggest white pepper for mild spiciness, or you can even try ground green peppercorns for an extra robust, peppery, and herby flavor.
1 Teaspoon of Salt: I use regular salt; try using the same for an enhanced taste in your spaghetti.

Preparation And Cooking Time

Preparation Time	Cooking Time	Total Time
10 Minutes	10 Minutes	20 Minutes

How to Make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio At Home

Step 1

Boil some water along with salt in a stockpot.

Step 2

Once the water comes to a slight boil, add in the spaghetti and let it boil for 5-7 minutes or until al dente.

Step 3

After cooking the spaghetti, drain it, reserving some pasta water for later use, and set the strained pasta aside.

Step 4

Drizzle olive oil into the frying pan.

Step 5

Next, toss in garlic, chili flakes, and parsley into the pan and saute, along with some of the pasta water.

Step 6

Finally, add the spaghetti to the pan and toss to combine thoroughly. After that, season with salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese.

Step 7

Your Italian delicacy of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is now ready for you to enjoy.

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Recipe Video

Expert Tips That I Recommend

To add richness and depth to my pasta dishes I use extra virgin olive oil. The olive oil is the backbone of this dish, so use the better one.
I reserve some pasta water before draining to emulsify the olive oil and garlic sauce, ensuring it clings to the pasta better.
I like the garlic when it turns lightly golden and aromatic and to maintain the aroma I slowly sauté the garlic in olive oil on low heat. This allows the garlic to release its fragrance and infuse the oil without burning. If you cook it too quickly, it can turn bitter, which affects the overall taste.
I prefer not to overheat the sauce once the pasta is added to the pan. This will allow the pasta to absorb the garlic-infused oil and the starchy pasta water. High heat here could cause the oil to separate.

FAQs About Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Recipe

What can be done if the Spaghetti incorporates a bitter flavor?

To prevent the garlic from burning and giving the spaghetti a bitter taste, it’s best to cook it over medium or low heat.

What can be done if the spaghetti becomes too dry?

You might want to add a little butter, some broth, or reserved spaghetti water to the garlic and oil in the pan for a smoother, saucier result. Stir well to ensure the sauce coats the pasta perfectly.

How do you avoid a mushy consistency of spaghetti?

Cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente, giving it a perfectly chewy and smooth bite. Remember to check it frequently to avoid overcooking.

What can be done if the spaghetti is not coated well along with onion and garlic?

Mix the spaghetti well with the garlic and oil. If the sauce isn’t coating the pasta properly, consider adding a binder like corn or potato starch slurry.

How can you prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?

If the spaghetti is sticking together in clumps, add oil to the boiling water to keep the strands separated.

How will you know when the garlic is perfectly cooked?

The garlic is perfectly cooked when it turns golden brown and releases a fragrant aroma. It has a slightly soft texture and a sweet, nutty scent, but it does not burn.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a delicious recipe that is moderately healthy. However, due to its high calorie and fat content, it is best to enjoy this dish in moderation.

Calories	513 kcal
Carbohydrates	90 g
Protein	16 g
Fat	9 g
Saturated Fat	1 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	1 g
Monounsaturated Fat	5 g
Cholesterol	0.3 mg
Sodium	1195 mg
Potassium	310 mg
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	3 g
Vitamin A	310 IU
Vitamin C	1 mg
Calcium	45 mg
Iron	2 mg

This recipe is suitable for people following low-sugar diets. It can also be eaten by people who stick to keto, vegans or vegetarians, dairy-free, fat-free, and gluten-free diets with few alterations of ingredients.

Recipe Variations For Different Diets

Ketogenic Diet: To make this recipe suitable for people following keto diets, I recommend altering spaghetti to almond flour pasta and following the exact steps as given above.
Vegan or Vegetarian Diet: For this type of diet, I suggest altering parmesan cheese to vegan parmesan cheese, cashew cheese, or even nutritional yeast. To make this recipe suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Gluten-Free Diet: Here, I recommend altering spaghetti to chickpea flour pasta or almond flour pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storing And Reheating This Recipe

Storing

In The Refrigerator: I always store my leftovers of spaghetti in the refrigerator. You too can do the same and for that, just transfer the spaghetti to an airtight container and place it in your refrigerator. This way, it stays fresh for up to 4 – 5 days.
In The Freezer: I don’t prefer storing spaghetti in the freezer, and I wouldn’t recommend this as your first option. However, if you really need to, you can pack your spaghetti in an airtight container and keep it in the freezer. The spaghetti may last up to 15 days or one month.

Reheating

In The Oven: I suggest preheating your oven to 350 F and transferring your leftover spaghetti to an oven-safe bowl, a little olive oil or butter, and some chicken or vegetable broth. Then, cover it with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until it is piping hot.
In The Microwave: I transfer the leftover spaghetti, olive oil, butter, and some chicken or vegetable broth to a microwave-safe plate. I place it in the microwave for about 30 seconds, heating at the highest heat setting. I recommend stirring it at intervals until it becomes hot.
Stovetop Method: I recommend adding your leftover spaghetti, olive oil or butter, and chicken or vegetable broth to a saucepan and stirring it at medium temperature for about 5-7 minutes or until it becomes hot.

What To Serve With This Recipe

There are numerous recipes that pair beautifully with Spaghetti Aglio E Olio, and based on my experience, my top choices are Garlic Bread and cherry tomato Bruschetta.

To add a refreshing element, consider enjoying it with a Caprese Salad or Caesar Salad, which makes for a straightforward, yet contrasting meal. If you’re craving something with a bit more sauce, then I recommend eating your spaghetti with Saucy Meatballs.

Alternatively, Grilled Shrimp and Grilled Lobster with spaghetti create an excellent seafood combination. The options are limitless, and you can choose what works best for you!

Printable Version

More Lunch and Dinner Recipes That You Can Try

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Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti — Paula Deen Heart Attack Burger

Conclusion

This Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a favorite of mine, whether served solo or alongside a delightful side. It’s a quick and tasty option that fits perfectly into my hectic schedule.

Made with minimal ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for any meal of the day.

If unexpected guests or friends drop by, you can effortlessly impress them with this delightful dish. I suggest to just follow the steps outlined, to make the flavors shine.

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Recipe

Equipments Required

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Ingredients & Substitutions

Preparation And Cooking Time