Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that highlights the simplicity of garlic and olive oil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This flavorful pasta is infused with the heat of red pepper flakes and garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
A polished English infographic for the whole cooking flow, paired with the full written recipe below for detail and SEO.
Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- 2
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 3
Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- 4
Stir in the red pepper flakes to infuse the oil with heat, and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- 5
Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic and oil.
- 6
Toss the spaghetti in the oil, adding lemon juice and reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 7
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for freshness. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions.
Cook notes
Tips
Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out.
Substitutions
- Replace spaghetti with linguine or fettuccine if preferred.
- Use minced garlic instead of sliced for a different texture.
What to Serve With
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread for a classic pairing.
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the garlic can make it bitter, so remove it from heat as soon as it turns golden.
- Adding too much pasta water can make the dish soggy, so add gradually.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta, but spaghetti is traditional for this dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly.
How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on the amount of red pepper flakes you use.
Kitchen tools
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Blender
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Chef knife
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Cutting board
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Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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