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Easy 15-Minute Spaghetti Aglio Olio Recipe for Quick Homemade Dinner

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A quick and easy Italian classic featuring spaghetti tossed in garlicky olive oil with a hint of red pepper flakes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (80 ml)
  • 6 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • Kosher or sea salt, for pasta water and seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to finish
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts (4 liters) of water.
  2. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat 1/3 cup (80 ml) of extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet.
  4. Add 6 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the oil.
  5. Cook the garlic slices slowly, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Watch closely to prevent burning.
  6. Before draining the pasta, scoop out 1 cup (240 ml) of the starchy pasta water and set aside.
  7. Drain the spaghetti using a colander but do not rinse it.
  8. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic oil.
  9. Pour in about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of reserved pasta water and toss with tongs to coat the noodles evenly.
  10. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley, season with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed. Toss gently.
  11. Serve immediately, sprinkled with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Cook garlic slowly over medium-low heat and stir frequently to avoid burning. Use reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce. Add more pasta water if sauce is too thick. Al dente pasta is key for best texture. Fresh parsley adds brightness; lemon zest or juice can be added for extra freshness. Parmesan cheese is optional and can be omitted for vegan version.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, aglio olio, garlic pasta, quick dinner, easy recipe, Italian pasta, weeknight meal

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