If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, then you must have tried or at least heard of aglio e olio . This simple yet flavorful dish is made with just a few basic ingredients that come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making garlic, oil, and spaghetti in the comfort of your home.
To make this delightful pasta dish, you will need the following ingredients:
– 8 ounces of spaghetti
– 4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Now that you have gathered the necessary ingredients, let’s get started with the recipe:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite).
– Drain the spaghetti but be sure to reserve about a cup of the pasta water. This will come in handy later.
2. Prepare the Garlic and Chili Oil:
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the sliced garlic and chili flakes to the skillet.
– Cook the garlic gently, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it as it can quickly turn bitter.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
– Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and chili oil.
– Toss the pasta in the oil until it is well coated and heated through.
– If the spaghetti seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually while tossing to create a silky sauce.
– Season with salt to taste. Remember, the pasta water and the salted cooking water should provide enough salt, so be cautious.
4. Serve and Garnish:
– Once the spaghetti is well coated and has absorbed the of the garlic and chili oil, remove the skillet from the heat.
– Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large platter.
– Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Now, your homemade garlic, oil, and chili pepper spaghetti is ready to be savored. The combination of pungent garlic, fragrant olive oil, and a hint of spiciness from the chili flakes make this dish a winner every time. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your own twist. You can enhance the flavors by incorporating some grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Additionally, you can add ingredients like sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or grilled shrimp to elevate the dish to another level.
In conclusion, making garlic, oil, and chili pepper spaghetti at home is a breeze and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. With just a few pantry staples, you can have a delicious plate of pasta ready in no time. So, put on your apron and give this simple yet flavorful recipe a try – Buon appetito!