Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Background and History

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity and irresistible flavors. Hailing from Naples, this dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring just a handful of ingredients, including garlic and olive oil. It’s believed to have originated as a quick and easy meal for fishermen returning from their voyages.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
  • 4-6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Serves: 2

Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Instructions

  • Boil the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently until the garlic turns golden, being careful not to burn it.
  • Add the cooked and drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta with the garlic-infused oil. If it seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to create a light sauce.
  • Season with salt and freshly chopped parsley. If you like, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g

Notes

  • The key to this dish is using good quality olive oil, as it’s a prominent flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.

Allergy Warning

  • This dish contains wheat (spaghetti) and tree nuts (if you choose to use pine nuts). Be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.
Ignatius Thornfield
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Ignatius Thornfield, the discerning Recipe Connoisseur behind this site, is a culinary aficionado dedicated to transforming pet dining into an art form. With an exquisite taste for flavors and a keen eye for nutritious combinations, Ignatius shares a curated collection of gourmet pet recipes. His site is a sanctuary for pet owners seeking to indulge their furry friends with delectable and health-conscious meals. Ignatius's expertise in the realm of pet cuisine is evident in the sophisticated and thoughtfully crafted content he presents. For those who appreciate the finer culinary experiences for their pets, Ignatius Thornfield's site is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights.