Few dishes offer the comfort and elegance of Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil, better known in Italy as Aglio e Olio. Made with just a handful of pantry staples—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes—this classic Neapolitan dish proves that simplicity can be utterly delicious.
This was a recipe my nonna made on Friday nights when the fridge was nearly empty and no one felt like cooking. Despite its humble ingredients, it always brought everyone to the table. With just 25 minutes, you can bring the same warmth and flavor into your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Budget-Friendly – Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
- Authentic Italian – Straight from the heart of Naples.
- Customizable – Make it spicy, cheesy, or herbaceous.
Ingredients
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, for pasta water
Optional Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Tongs or pasta fork
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes. Do not let the garlic burn—it should be lightly golden, not brown.
3. Toss Pasta in Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat all the noodles. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen and bind the sauce.
4. Add Finishing Touches
Stir in fresh parsley and toss again. If using, top with a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
- Add protein: Toss in sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken.
- Make it vegan: Skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast.
- Boost the flavor: Add anchovy paste or a splash of lemon juice.
- Use linguine: Works beautifully as a spaghetti alternative.
What to Serve With
- Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the garlic oil in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What’s the best pasta for Aglio e Olio?
Spaghetti is traditional, but linguine or bucatini also work well.
Is Parmesan traditional?
Not in the classic version—but it’s a delicious addition!
Final Thoughts
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil is the kind of recipe that reminds us: simple can be extraordinary. With just a few fresh ingredients and a touch of technique, this dish transforms into a rich, aromatic meal that brings Italian comfort straight to your table.
Make it once, and it’ll become a permanent fixture in your weekly dinner rotation.
The Goods
Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)
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Recipes
- 400 g 14 oz spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt for pasta water
Optional Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water.
Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes. Do not let the garlic burn—it should be lightly golden, not brown.
Toss Pasta in Sauce
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat all the noodles. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen and bind the sauce.
Add Finishing Touches
- Stir in fresh parsley and toss again. If using, top with a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.
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