Memories of Italy are often painted with the flavors of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio. Each strand coated with glistening olive oil, a hint of garlic, and a whisper of chili. Dive into this culinary saga as I, with years of expertise, guide you through the magic of this iconic dish.
Aglio E Olio in Italian literally means ‘garlic with oil’. In other words, this traditional Italian recipe is a spaghetti recipe mixed along with oil and ginger. Rather than pronouncing its name, preparing the dish itself is easier. This tasty and delicious Italian Dish can be served along with garlic bread or chicken.
A classic Italian pasta dish, spaghetti aglio e olio is a simple, delicious dish to make at home. Just a few ingredients will make it an easy meal for any occasion. Try adding some extra garlic, grilled chicken breast, or sauteed garlic butter shrimp to the sauce for a special dinner. You can also add extra vegetables to the sauce to increase its health and nutrition value.
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Recipe
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ pound Spaghetti
- 3 tbsps. Olive Oil
- 3 large cloves Garlic thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp. Red Pepper Flakes
- 1-2 tbsp. Parsley
- 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese vegetarian is optional
- Black Pepper freshly crushed to taste
- salt
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti in boiling water with a little oil and salt and cook for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the boiling pot.
- When the pasta is cooked, drain the water, rinse the pasta with cold water and set it aside.
- Slowly toast the garlic on heated olive oil in a medium-heated pan. Make sure that you don’t burn the garlic or it will taste bitter.
- Add some pepper flakes before turning the stove off. Add the pasta, parsley, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Toss well until the spaghetti gets entirely coated with oil. Put it in a large plate then serve.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Preparing Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Using a Microwave
There’s something intrinsically charming about Spaghetti Aglio E Olio, a dish that exemplifies the beauty of minimalism. While traditionally made on a stovetop, let’s venture into modernity and see how we can recreate this classic using a microwave. Surprising, isn’t it? But, believe me, on days when simplicity beckons, this method is a lifesaver!
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: 200 grams
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 5 tablespoons
- Fresh Garlic: 5 cloves (thinly sliced)
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped)
- Salt: to taste
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): for garnish
Method
- Pasta Prep: In a large microwave-safe bowl, break the spaghetti in half (if needed) and submerge it in water. Add a pinch of salt. Microwave on high for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Remember, microwaves vary, so keep an eye to avoid overcooking. Once done, drain the water.
- Garlic Infusion: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the olive oil and thinly sliced garlic. Microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is lightly golden. The aroma will be a clear giveaway!
- Final Touches: Remove the garlic and oil bowl carefully (it’ll be hot!). Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and half the parsley. Now, add the drained spaghetti to this bowl and toss well, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the aromatic oil.
- Serve: Dish out your microwave-made Spaghetti Aglio E Olio onto plates, garnish with the remaining fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Pair it with a crisp white wine, and you’ve got yourself a slice of Italy, right from your microwave!
Embracing the charm of the traditional with the convenience of the modern, this method reaffirms that deliciousness knows no bounds!
Tips for making Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Serving Suggestions
Ah, the elegance of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio, where every strand tells a story. But every good story can be made even better with the right companions. Whether you’re hosting an Italian soirée or looking for a quiet dinner, here are some curated suggestions to elevate this classic:
- Bread: A slice of crusty Italian bread or a piece of garlic bread would be heavenly. Imagine soaking up the garlic-infused olive oil with it!
- Wine: A crisp white wine, perhaps a Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, complements the simplicity of this dish perfectly. It elevates the garlicky notes and the warmth of the red pepper flakes.
- Salad: A refreshing arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, parmesan shavings, and a light lemon vinaigrette will balance out the richness.
- Serve it Cold: On a hot summer day, try serving Spaghetti Aglio E Olio chilled. The flavors meld beautifully, offering a different yet delightful experience.
Cooking Tips
In the realm of culinary arts, sometimes, the simplest dishes demand the most attention. Spaghetti Aglio E Olio might seem straightforward, but it’s the nuances that can make or break this dish:
- Garlic Watch: Always keep an eye on your garlic, especially in the microwave method. Golden is glorious, but even a few seconds more can turn it bitter.
- Oil Quality: Never compromise on the quality of olive oil. This dish is defined by it. A good quality olive oil can transform this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining. If your pasta feels dry, add a splash of this starchy water. It helps in binding the oil and pasta, giving a silky texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Microwaves can be tricky. Always ensure you’re checking the pasta intermittently to prevent it from getting mushy.
List of 5 FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to experiment with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
2. I’m not a fan of spicy foods; can I omit the red pepper flakes?
Of course! Adjust the spice level to your liking. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Spaghetti Aglio E Olio in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for up to 2 days. When reheating, a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water can revive its freshness.
4. Can I add other ingredients like vegetables or proteins?
While the classic version is minimalist, there’s no harm in getting creative. Toss in some sautéed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, or even spinach for added layers of flavor.
5. What’s the key to achieving the perfect garlic flavor?
The secret lies in how you slice and cook the garlic. Thin slices ensure it infuses the oil perfectly without overpowering the dish. Always ensure you cook it just until golden to capture its sweet, aromatic essence.
Rediscover the timeless charm of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio in our latest post. Every strand speaks volumes, and we’d love for you to be part of the conversation
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Experience the culinary brilliance of Chef John at Food And Meal Restaurant. With over 20 years of global expertise, My innovative creations and unwavering dedication to cooking have earned me a well-deserved reputation. My passion for gastronomy is showcased in every dish, combining fresh, local ingredients with harmonious flavors and captivating presentations. My ability to tell a story through my food reflects my profound understanding of culture and emotion.