Garlic Spaghetti: A Simple Delight
Garlic Spaghetti, often known as Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, is a classic Italian dish that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. It’s the perfect meal for garlic lovers and those looking for a quick, budget-friendly dinner option. With minimal ingredients and a short preparation time, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something deliciously straightforward.
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti: 8 ounces (about half a box)
- Garlic: 4 large cloves, finely chopped or sliced
- Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons, extra virgin preferred
- Red Chili Flakes: ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, freshly chopped (optional for garnish)
- Salt: to taste
- Water: for boiling pasta
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Method:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Before draining, remember to save about a cup of pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Garlic Oil:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped or sliced garlic. Cook it gently, stirring frequently, until it’s just golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
3. Add Chili Flakes:
To the garlic oil, add the red chili flakes. Stir them in to infuse the oil with a bit of heat. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can reduce the amount or leave it out altogether
4. Combine Pasta and Garlic Oil:
Once the pasta is cooked and drained (remembering to reserve some pasta water), add it to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss everything together well, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce cling to the pasta. The starch in the water helps create a silky texture.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the spaghetti for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot.
This Garlic Spaghetti recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. It requires just a few ingredients per serving to elevate the dish to something special. It’s a versatile base; feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or parmesan cheese if you want to experiment. Enjoy this timeless classic that brings the heart of Italy right to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
