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Easy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe with Garlic and Chili Flakes Perfect for Beginners

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A quick and simple spaghetti aglio e olio recipe featuring toasted garlic and chili flakes, perfect for busy weeknights and beginner cooks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) dried spaghetti
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 large cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, for pasta water and seasoning to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1/3 cup (80 ml) of extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Add 6 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes.
  3. Stir frequently and cook until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
  4. Reserve about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
  5. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with garlic and chili oil. Toss well with tongs to coat evenly. If the pasta feels dry, splash in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until silky and smooth.
  6. Add salt to taste and freshly ground black pepper (about 1/2 teaspoon). Toss again and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley if using.
  7. Plate the pasta and offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side. Serve immediately while warm and fragrant.

Notes

Toast garlic slowly over medium-low heat to avoid bitterness. Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce. Adjust chili flakes to your preferred heat level. Use fresh garlic and good quality olive oil for best flavor. Leftovers store well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator; reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of olive oil or pasta water.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti aglio e olio, garlic pasta, chili flakes pasta, easy Italian recipe, quick pasta, beginner pasta recipe

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