Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

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Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create something unforgettable. With silky strands of pasta coated in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, this Italian classic delivers bold flavor without fuss.

It’s the kind of dish you turn to on a busy weeknight when you want something comforting yet elegant. Ready in under 20 minutes, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio feels both rustic and refined—perfect for a quick dinner, a late-night craving, or an effortless meal to impress guests.

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Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This dish celebrates simplicity at its finest. You don’t need heavy cream, complicated sauces, or a long ingredient list. Just good-quality olive oil, fresh garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta.

It’s budget-friendly, pantry-based, and incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as-is or add shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables to make it heartier. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and easy to adjust for different spice levels.

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What Makes Spaghetti Aglio e Olio So Flavorful?

The magic lies in technique. Gently sautéing thinly sliced garlic in olive oil releases its aroma without burning it. Adding reserved pasta water helps create a light, glossy sauce that clings to every strand.

Using high-quality olive oil and cooking the pasta just until al dente makes all the difference. Even though the ingredient list is short, each element plays a key role in building depth and balance.

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Ingredients for the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Each ingredient in Spaghetti Aglio e Olio has a purpose, and together they create a beautifully balanced dish.

• Spaghetti – The base of the recipe. Long pasta strands hold onto the light garlic oil sauce perfectly.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The heart of the sauce, adding richness and fruity depth.
• Fresh Garlic – Thinly sliced for bold, aromatic flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a gentle heat that enhances the garlic.
• Fresh Parsley – Brings freshness and color to balance the richness.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning the pasta water and enhancing overall flavor.
• Reserved Pasta Water – Helps emulsify the oil into a silky, cohesive sauce.
• Optional Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory finish, though traditional versions often skip it.

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How To Make the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This recipe comes together quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped before you begin.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and lightly golden. Avoid browning too much to prevent bitterness.

Step 3: Add Heat and Flavor

Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor into the oil.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss well to coat in the garlic oil. Gradually add small splashes of reserved pasta water while tossing to create a glossy, emulsified sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley. Adjust salt if needed and serve immediately. Top with Parmesan if desired.

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Serving and Storing Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish. It’s best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is silky and the pasta is hot.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the pasta.

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What to Serve With Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?

Pairing this pasta with the right sides turns it into a complete meal.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy garlic bread makes a perfect companion for soaking up every drop of olive oil.

Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad

A fresh side like this bright and hearty salad adds protein and balance.

Italian Grinder Salad

Crisp, bold flavors complement the simplicity of the pasta beautifully.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A warm bowl of soup adds comfort, especially during colder months.

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots

Roasted vegetables bring a slightly sweet contrast to the garlicky pasta.

Pan-Fried Shrimp

Add protein on the side for a seafood-inspired twist.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, you’ll love exploring more comforting pasta dishes from Nora Nosh:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a creamy, flavor-packed dinner.
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta when you’re craving something rich and satisfying.
• Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta for a fresh and vibrant option.
• One-Pot Creamy Kielbasa Pasta for an easy weeknight favorite.
• Beef Pasta in a Creamy Garlic Sauce for hearty comfort food.

Explore even more delicious ideas and daily inspiration on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/noranoshrecipes/

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra chili flakes or keep it mild? Did you top it with cheese or keep it traditional?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome—let’s cook smarter together!

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