Spaghetti aglio e olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that is simple yet incredibly flavorful. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that highlights the natural flavors of garlic and olive oil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time.
While most of the ingredients for spaghetti aglio e olio are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up some fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil if you don't already have them. Additionally, make sure you have red pepper flakes on hand to add a bit of heat to the dish.
Ingredients For Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Spaghetti: The base of the dish, providing a hearty and satisfying texture.
Garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor that is essential to the dish.
Olive oil: The primary cooking fat, which infuses the pasta with a smooth, luxurious taste.
Red pepper flakes: Brings a subtle heat that complements the garlic and oil.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing garlic for Spaghetti Aglio E Olio, make sure to slice it thinly and evenly. This ensures that the garlic cooks uniformly, preventing any pieces from burning while others remain undercooked. Additionally, keep a close eye on the garlic as it cooks in the olive oil; it can quickly go from golden brown to burnt, which would impart a bitter taste to the dish.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
spaghetti - Substitute with linguine: Linguine has a similar texture and thickness, making it a great alternative for this dish.
spaghetti - Substitute with zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles provide a similar shape and can absorb the flavors well.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor but still provide a nice aromatic base for the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can be used, though the flavor will be less intense.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for sautéing.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil is another healthy oil with a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide a similar level of heat, though it is slightly more intense.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with fresh chili peppers: Fresh chili peppers can be finely chopped to add heat and a fresh flavor to the dish.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store / Freeze This Dish
- Allow the spaghetti to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
- Transfer the spaghetti aglio e olio to an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to maintain the dish's freshness.
- Store the container in the refrigerator. The spaghetti will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- For freezing, portion the spaghetti into individual servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need.
- Place each portion in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers with the date. This helps keep track of how long the spaghetti has been stored.
- When ready to eat, thaw the spaghetti in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture.
- Reheat the spaghetti in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to refresh the flavors and prevent sticking.
- Toss the spaghetti gently to ensure even heating. Avoid overcooking to maintain the al dente texture.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a large pan over medium heat.
- Add a splash of olive oil to the pan.
- Add the leftover spaghetti and toss gently to reheat evenly.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to help loosen it up.
- Continue tossing until the spaghetti is heated through.
Microwave Method:
- Place the leftover spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish.
- Add a splash of olive oil or a tablespoon of water to keep it moist.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
- Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Check if the spaghetti is heated through; if not, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover spaghetti in an oven-safe dish.
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until the spaghetti is heated through.
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Boiling Water Method:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Place the leftover spaghetti in a colander.
- Dip the colander into the boiling water for about 30 seconds.
- Remove the colander and let the spaghetti drain.
- Toss with a bit of olive oil before serving.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Large pot: Used to cook the spaghetti until al dente.
Colander: Essential for draining the cooked spaghetti.
Large pan: Needed to heat the olive oil and cook the garlic and red pepper flakes.
Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the garlic and red pepper flakes in the pan.
Tongs: Ideal for tossing the spaghetti in the garlic oil to ensure even coating.
Chef's knife: Necessary for thinly slicing the garlic cloves.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for slicing the garlic.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the olive oil accurately.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure the red pepper flakes and salt.
Serving bowl: Perfect for presenting the finished dish.
Cheese grater: If desired, used for grating parmesan cheese to serve with the dish.
Chopping knife: Handy for chopping parsley if you choose to garnish the dish.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prep ingredients in advance: Slice the garlic and measure out the olive oil and red pepper flakes before you start cooking.
Use the same pot: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot, then use the same pot to mix the garlic oil and pasta, reducing cleanup time.
Quick boil method: Use a kettle to boil water faster, then pour it into the pot to cook the spaghetti.
Multitask: While the spaghetti is cooking, start heating the olive oil and cooking the garlic to save time.
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until garlic is golden brown.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan. Toss to coat in the garlic oil. Season with salt.
- Serve with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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