Description
Looking for a quick dinner idea that’s both elegant and effortless? This Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that brings together pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti in under 20 minutes. It’s the perfect combination of comfort and flavor, making it one of the best choices for an easy recipe, quick dinner, or healthy snack alternative. Ideal for weeknights or last-minute entertaining!
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)
1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs (optional)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until golden, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spice.
4. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water. Mix until pasta is coated with the garlic oil.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust salt if needed.
6. Optionally, top with toasted breadcrumbs before serving for extra texture.
Notes
For the best flavor, use freshly sliced garlic instead of pre-minced.
Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be golden, not brown, to avoid bitterness.
Adding breadcrumbs is optional but gives a delicious crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: spaghetti aglio e olio, easy pasta, quick dinner, healthy snack, pantry pasta