This spaghetti aglio e olio is a go-to Italian pasta recipe that’s quick, delicious, and packed with flavor. It’s ready in just 15 minutes and made with simple ingredients you already have in your pantry: spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and parsley. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an Italian-themed meal at home.
🧾 Ingredients for Spaghetti Aglio e Olio (Serves 4)
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 How to Make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Cook the spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - Make the garlic oil:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add sliced garlic and cook over medium-low heat until golden and fragrant, not brown. Remove from heat. - Add chili flakes:
Stir in the chili flakes while the oil is still warm to infuse the flavor. - Reserve pasta water:
Save 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. - Combine and toss:
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Return to low heat and toss with the garlic oil, adding pasta water a little at a time to help emulsify the sauce. - Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley, drizzle with extra olive oil, and serve hot.
✅ Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic – it should be golden, not brown.
- Salt your pasta water properly – it should taste like the sea.
🍷 What to Serve with Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Wine: Pinot Grigio or Vermentino
- Salad: Arugula with lemon vinaigrette
- Non-alcoholic: Sparkling lemon water or iced herbal tea
⚠️ Common Mistakes with Garlic Pasta
- Overcooking garlic – turns bitter quickly
- Skipping pasta water – essential for creamy sauce texture
- Using low-quality oil – it’s the base of the dish’s flavor
🧊 Storing Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
While best served fresh, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a pan with a tablespoon of water or extra olive oil to refresh the sauce.
✨ Final Thoughts on This Easy Pasta Recipe
This spaghetti aglio e olio recipe is an Italian classic for a reason. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious, restaurant-worthy dish right at home. It’s quick, satisfying, and a true staple of traditional Italian cuisine.
👉 Want to try more? Check out our Penne al Pomodoro Recipe or browse other Italian pasta recipes for more delicious ideas.
