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Golden spaghetti aglio e olio with garlic slices and red pepper flakes glistening with olive oil on white plate

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

A classic Italian spaghetti dish made with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, served with toasted breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 6-8 garlic cloves
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4-6 dried red pepper flakes
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 lemons cut into wedges

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
  4. Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti, then add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture.
  6. Toss the spaghetti in the skillet, adding some reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too dry, until the spaghetti is well coated with the garlic and oil mixture.
  7. Season the spaghetti with salt and black pepper to taste, then serve hot topped with toasted breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley.

Notes

To toast breadcrumbs, simply heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat, add the breadcrumbs, and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned and crispy. You can also customize this recipe by adding other ingredients, such as diced anchovies or chopped cherry tomatoes, to the garlic and oil mixture.