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Easy 15-Minute Aglio e Olio Garlic Pasta Recipe Perfect for Quick Dinners

Easy 15-Minute Aglio e Olio Garlic Pasta - featured image
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A quick and simple Italian pasta dish featuring garlic, olive oil, and a hint of red pepper flakes, perfect for busy weeknights and comforting meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
  • Salt (for pasta water and seasoning)
  • Small handful fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (4-5 quarts) to a boil. The water should taste like the sea.
  2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Add the thinly sliced garlic and stir gently, toasting slowly until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  4. Add the red pepper flakes to the garlic oil and stir for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
  5. Drain the pasta quickly and transfer it directly into the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss gently with tongs to coat every strand. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the pasta looks dry, until silky.
  6. Add chopped fresh parsley and toss again. Season with additional salt if needed.
  7. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Keep the heat moderate when toasting garlic to avoid burning. Use reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles. Thinly slice garlic for even cooking. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor. Parsley adds freshness but is optional. Parmesan cheese is optional and can be substituted with a vegan alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: Aglio e Olio, garlic pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, Italian pasta, weeknight meal, olive oil pasta

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