RECIPE: The simplicity and elegance of spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Photo: Freepik

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a dish that epitomizes the essence of Italian cuisine: simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something incredibly flavorful. Though it only requires a few staple ingredients—garlic, olive oil, and pasta—it showcases how even the most humble foods can transform into a comforting, satisfying meal.

Originating from Naples, this dish is beloved for its no-fuss preparation, making it perfect for those who want a quick and delicious meal without sacrificing quality. Italians have mastered the art of elevating the simplest ingredients, and Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a prime example of this culinary philosophy.

One of the standout features of Aglio e Olio is its perfect balance between richness and spice. The olive oil provides a silky, luscious base that coats the pasta, while the garlic brings a savory warmth. Add a dash of red pepper flakes, and you get that gentle kick of heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering the other flavors.

What makes this dish particularly special is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting late-night snack, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio fits the bill. It’s a dish that can be customized based on what you have on hand—shrimp, vegetables, or even a touch of lemon zest can add a personal twist to the classic recipe. However, its true beauty lies in its simplicity. There’s no need for fancy sauces or complicated techniques—just a few fresh ingredients and a bit of attention to detail.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio also carries an air of tradition and comfort. It’s a dish passed down through generations, one that Italian families have enjoyed at home for centuries. It has stood the test of time not because it’s complex, but because it’s timeless.

In a world full of elaborate recipes and complicated dishes, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio reminds us that sometimes the simplest meals are the most rewarding.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Recipe by Lukas Erlebach

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

166

kcal

Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti

• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 100ml extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

• Salt, to taste

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Lemon zest (optional for a fresh touch)

Directions

• Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
• Prepare the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently until it becomes golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
• Add pepper flakes: If you like a bit of heat, toss in the red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds.
• Combine the pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the garlic and oil. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until the sauce has a silky consistency.
• Finish and serve: Remove the pan from heat, stir in the fresh parsley, and season with salt to taste. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or add a bit of lemon zest.
• Serve: Plate the spaghetti, drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired, and enjoy your authentic Italian meal!

Recipe Video

Notes

• Tip: This dish is best when kept simple, but feel free to customize it with ingredients like shrimp or sautéed vegetables.