Pasta Aglio e Olio

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If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful pasta dish, look no further than Pasta Aglio e Olio. This classic Italian recipe uses simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes to create a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but craving something delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will have you making restaurant-quality pasta right at home!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 400g (14 oz) of Spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 6-8 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • 1-2 teaspoons of red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup of freshly chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water (reserve before draining)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 4-5 liters of water for 400g of pasta, and add a generous pinch of salt. This will help season the pasta as it cooks.
  2. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
  3. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water just before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce later on.
  4. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil Sauce

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Make sure the pan is large enough to toss the pasta later. You want enough room for the pasta to move around and coat evenly in the sauce.
  2. Add the sliced garlic to the pan and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn it, as this can make the garlic taste bitter.
  3. Add the chili flakes to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the chili flakes to release their flavor into the oil.
  4. If you want to enhance the flavor, add the lemon zest at this point. It adds a fresh, citrusy note to the dish, balancing out the richness of the olive oil.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Once the garlic is golden and fragrant, add the cooked pasta to the pan with the garlic and oil.
  2. Toss the pasta in the olive oil, ensuring that each strand is coated with the flavorful sauce. You can use tongs or a large spoon for this.
  3. Add the reserved pasta cooking water to the pan, a little at a time. This will help the oil and garlic sauce bind with the pasta, creating a smooth, glossy finish. Toss well until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too dry, add a bit more pasta water.

Step 4: Final Touches

  1. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the pasta cooking water might already contain some salt, so taste before adding more.
  2. Add the chopped parsley to the pasta and toss once more to distribute it evenly throughout the dish.
  3. If you like, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your pasta for added richness and flavor.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Divide the pasta among individual plates.
  2. Serve immediately, with an extra sprinkle of chili flakes or Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
  3. Garnish with more freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness (optional).

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Aglio e Olio:

  • Use high-quality olive oil: Since olive oil is the star ingredient, make sure you’re using a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the chili flakes: If you prefer a milder dish, start with a small amount of chili flakes and adjust to taste. If you love spicy food, feel free to add more.
  • Don’t overcook the garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if it’s cooked too long. Be sure to sauté it until golden but not brown.
  • Pasta cooking water is key: Don’t skip the step of reserving some pasta cooking water. The starchy water helps the sauce come together and coat the pasta perfectly.

Variations:

  1. Add Protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to make this a more substantial meal.
  2. Veggie Boost: Add roasted cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and color.
  3. Vegan Option: Skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute for a dairy-free version.
  4. Lemon and Capers: For a Mediterranean twist, try adding a spoonful of capers for a salty, briny flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic and olive oil.

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