Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe

Ingredients:

• 350g spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.

2. Prepare the garlic: While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Combine spaghetti and garlic oil: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the spaghetti evenly with the oil. If the spaghetti seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Season and garnish: Season the spaghetti with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley, reserving some for garnish.

5. Serve: Divide the spaghetti aglio e olio among serving plates. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips:

• For a variation, you can add some cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or vegetables like broccoli or cherry tomatoes to the spaghetti.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side for a complete meal.

This recipe is simple, delicious, and appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it perfect for any occasion!