Pasta Aglio Olio Recipe: A Simple Italian Delight
Pasta Aglio Olio, a classic dish that originates from Italy, brings together the perfect balance of garlic, chili, and olive oil. This dish is not just about simplicity, itโs a celebration of flavors that have stood the test of time. Whether youโre a busy weeknight cook or a weekend gourmet, Pasta Aglio Olio is the answer to your craving for something rich, savory, and satisfying. A touch of fresh parsley and a sprinkling of Parmesan bring it all together in a dish thatโs nothing short of indulgent.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole wheat spaghetti pasta | 500 grams |
| Garlic (minced or crushed) | 8 cloves |
| Red chili flakes (or chopped red chillies) | 2 teaspoons |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 4 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley leaves | A handful |
| Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino cheese, or Italian breadcrumbs) | For garnish (as required) |
| Salt | As required |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 50 grams |
| Fat | 15 grams |
| Fiber | 7 grams |
| Sugar | 2 grams |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4
Cuisine:
- Italian
Course:
- Dinner
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the whole wheat spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to use salted boiling water for added flavor. Once cooked to al dente perfection, drain the pasta but reserve 1-2 ladles of the pasta water for later use. -
Prepare the Aglio Olio Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a flat pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced or crushed garlic along with the red chili flakes (or chopped red chilies). Sautรฉ for a minute until the garlic becomes golden and fragrant, but take care not to burn it. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the garlic and chili oil. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the oil mixture. If the pasta feels too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to moisten it. Stir continuously until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and heated through. -
Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in a handful of fresh parsley. Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese (or if you prefer, use Italian breadcrumbs for a crunchy twist). -
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pasta Aglio Olio immediately while itโs still warm. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Pizza Margherita and a glass of crisp white wine, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing weekend dinner.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. This subtle touch can elevate the taste of this simple yet elegant dish.
Pasta Aglio Olio is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisineโsimple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a go-to for those times when you want something quick, easy, and delicious. Enjoy!
