Tomato & Marinara

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio

Name: Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup (80ml) extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons (30g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons (30g) chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons (30g) lemon juice; 1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine

By Greta Yarrow · June 19, 2026 · Tomato & Marinara

Prep10 min

Cook15 min

Total25 min

Serves4

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio, a dish that never fails to bring me back to my grandmother's kitchen. This classic Italian-American recipe is a staple in many households, and for good reason - it's easy, flavorful, and can be made with just a few ingredients. As a home cook, I've learned to appreciate the simplicity and elegance of this dish, and I'm excited to share my version with you.

I remember helping my grandmother in the kitchen, watching as she effortlessly cooked up a pot of spaghetti and then tossed it with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. The aroma that filled the kitchen was incredible, and the flavors that came together were truly magical. Over the years, I've perfected my own recipe for Spaghetti Aglio E Olio, and I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, as it can be made in under 30 minutes and requires minimal ingredients. It's also a great option for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan meal, as it can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, what makes this recipe so special? For starters, the combination of garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes creates a rich and savory sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. The key to this dish is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the spaghetti just until it's al dente, so that it still has a bit of bite to it. With these simple tips and tricks, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Spaghetti Aglio E Olio dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich and savory sauce. We'll also be cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water, which will help to bring out the natural flavors of the pasta. With these simple ingredients and a bit of practice, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Spaghetti Aglio E Olio dish that's sure to become a staple in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
The combination of garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes creates a rich and savory sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly.
This recipe is a great option for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan meal, as it can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs.
The use of high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic and extra-virgin olive oil, makes a big difference in the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
This recipe is a classic Italian dish that's sure to become a staple in your household.
The technique used in this recipe, known as 'soffriggere,' is a classic Italian method for cooking aromatics and creating a flavorful sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is in the balance of flavors and textures. The garlic and red pepper flakes add a pungent and spicy flavor, while the olive oil and Parmesan cheese add a rich and creamy element. By cooking the spaghetti just until it's al dente, we're able to preserve its natural texture and prevent it from becoming mushy or overcooked.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of high-quality ingredients. Fresh garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese all make a big difference in the overall flavor and texture of the dish. By using these high-quality ingredients, we're able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also authentic and true to its Italian roots.

Finally, the technique used in this recipe is also important. By cooking the garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil, we're able to create a rich and savory sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. This technique, known as 'soffriggere,' is a classic Italian method for cooking aromatics and creating a flavorful sauce.

Overall, the combination of high-quality ingredients, balanced flavors, and classic Italian technique all come together to make this Spaghetti Aglio E Olio recipe a true standout. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese. You'll also need some salt and black pepper to season the dish. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic and extra-virgin olive oil, to get the best flavor and texture out of your dish.

When shopping for ingredients, look for spaghetti that's made from high-quality durum wheat semolina, and be sure to choose a good-quality Parmesan cheese that's been aged for at least 24 months. You'll also want to select fresh garlic that's firm and has no signs of sprouting, and extra-virgin olive oil that's rich and full-bodied.

12 oz (340g) spaghettiLook for spaghetti made from high-quality durum wheat semolina, as it will have a better texture and flavor than lower-quality options. Be sure to choose a spaghetti that's not too thin or too thick, as it will be easier to cook and serve.
4 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic that's firm and has no signs of sprouting, as it will have a better flavor and texture than older garlic. Be sure to mince the garlic finely, as it will cook more evenly and quickly.
1/3 cup (80ml) extra-virgin olive oilChoose a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil that's rich and full-bodied, as it will add a lot of flavor to the dish. Look for an oil that's been produced in a reputable region, such as Tuscany or Umbria, and that has a good balance of fruity and peppery notes.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakesUse red pepper flakes that are fresh and have a good balance of heat and flavor, as they will add a nice spicy kick to the dish. Be sure to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste, as some people prefer a milder flavor.
2 tablespoons (30g) grated Parmesan cheeseChoose a good-quality Parmesan cheese that's been aged for at least 24 months, as it will have a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that's perfect for this dish. Be sure to grate the cheese finely, as it will melt more evenly and quickly.
1/2 teaspoon saltUse a high-quality salt that's been harvested from a reputable source, such as the Himalayas or the Mediterranean. Be sure to adjust the amount of salt to your taste, as some people prefer a more salty flavor.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperUse a high-quality black pepper that's been freshly ground, as it will have a more complex and nuanced flavor than pre-ground pepper. Be sure to adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste, as some people prefer a more peppery flavor.
2 tablespoons (30g) chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh parsley that's been chopped finely, as it will add a nice freshness and flavor to the dish. Be sure to choose parsley that's been grown in a reputable region, such as Italy or California, and that has a good balance of sweet and bitter notes.
2 tablespoons (30g) lemon juiceUse fresh lemon juice that's been squeezed from a real lemon, as it will have a brighter and more complex flavor than bottled juice. Be sure to adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste, as some people prefer a more acidic flavor.
1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wineChoose a dry white wine that's been produced in a reputable region, such as Italy or France, and that has a good balance of acidity and flavor. Be sure to adjust the amount of white wine to your taste, as some people prefer a more subtle flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot with a lid, for cooking the spaghettiColander, for draining the spaghettiLarge skillet, for cooking the garlic and red pepper flakesWooden spoon, for stirring the garlic and red pepper flakesGrater, for grating the Parmesan cheeseInstant-read thermometer, for checking the temperature of the waterMeasuring cups and spoons, for measuring the ingredients

How to Make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Be sure to stir the spaghetti occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
2
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's lightly golden and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
3
Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Be sure to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste, as some people prefer a milder flavor.
4
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Be sure to stir the cheese in quickly, as it will melt more evenly and quickly.
5
When the spaghetti is done, drain it in a colander and add it to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Toss the spaghetti in the skillet, stirring constantly, until it's well coated with the sauce.
6
Add the chopped parsley, lemon juice, and dry white wine to the skillet, and toss the spaghetti to combine. Be sure to adjust the amount of lemon juice and white wine to your taste, as some people prefer a more acidic flavor.
7
Season the spaghetti with salt and black pepper to taste, and serve it immediately. Be sure to serve the spaghetti in a large bowl, as it will be easier to toss and serve.
8
To finish the dish, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top of the spaghetti, and serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad. Be sure to choose a good-quality bread, such as Ciabatta or Focaccia, and a fresh side salad, such as a Caprese or a green salad.
9
Be sure to cook the spaghetti just until it's al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit after it's been drained. This will help to prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy or overcooked.
10
To prevent the sauce from separating, be sure to stir the spaghetti constantly while it's cooking, and to add the grated Parmesan cheese in quickly. This will help to create a smooth and creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly.
11
To add some extra flavor to the dish, be sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic and extra-virgin olive oil. You can also add some other ingredients, such as diced onions or sliced mushrooms, to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes.
12
To make this recipe ahead of time, be sure to cook the spaghetti and the sauce separately, and then combine them just before serving. This will help to prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy or overcooked, and will also help to preserve the flavor and texture of the sauce.
13
To reheat the spaghetti, be sure to add a bit of water or olive oil to the skillet, and to stir the spaghetti constantly while it's heating. This will help to prevent the spaghetti from becoming dry or sticky, and will also help to preserve the flavor and texture of the sauce.

Expert Tips

Be sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic and extra-virgin olive oil, to get the best flavor and texture out of your dish.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste, as some people prefer a milder flavor.
Don't overcook the spaghetti, as it will become mushy and unappetizing.
Use a good-quality Parmesan cheese that's been aged for at least 24 months, as it will have a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that's perfect for this dish.
Add some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top of the spaghetti, as it will add a nice salty flavor and a bit of texture.
Serve the spaghetti with some crusty bread or a side salad, as it will help to round out the meal and add some extra flavor and texture.
To make this recipe ahead of time, be sure to cook the spaghetti and the sauce separately, and then combine them just before serving.
To reheat the spaghetti, be sure to add a bit of water or olive oil to the skillet, and to stir the spaghetti constantly while it's heating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the spaghetti, which will make it mushy and unappetizing.
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh garlic and extra-virgin olive oil, which will affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste, which will make the dish too spicy or too mild.
Not stirring the spaghetti constantly while it's cooking, which will cause it to stick together and become unevenly cooked.
Not adding the grated Parmesan cheese in quickly, which will make the sauce separate and become uneven.
Not serving the spaghetti immediately, which will cause it to become cold and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced onions or sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, as it will add some extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Use some other types of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, as it will change the texture and flavor of the dish.
Add some cooked chicken or shrimp to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, as it will add some extra protein and flavor to the dish.
Use some other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or ricotta, as it will change the flavor and texture of the dish.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, as it will add some extra flavor and freshness to the dish.
Use some other types of oil, such as olive or avocado oil, as it will change the flavor and texture of the dish.
Add some lemon zest or juice to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, as it will add some extra brightness and flavor to the dish.

What to Serve With Spaghetti Aglio E Olio

This Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is perfect for serving as a main course, and can be paired with a variety of sides and salads. Some ideas include a simple green salad, a Caprese salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. You can also serve the spaghetti with some crusty bread, such as Ciabatta or Focaccia, for a more filling meal.

Some other ideas for serving this dish include adding some cooked chicken or shrimp to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, or using some other types of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, for some extra flavor and freshness.

Serve the spaghetti with a simple green salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette.Pair the spaghetti with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts.Add some crusty bread, such as Ciabatta or Focaccia, to the meal for a more filling option.Serve the spaghetti with a side of garlic bread, such as a baguette slice topped with garlic butter and parmesan cheese.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Spaghetti Aglio E Olio can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. To reheat the spaghetti, be sure to add a bit of water or olive oil to the skillet, and to stir the spaghetti constantly while it's heating. This will help to prevent the spaghetti from becoming dry or sticky, and will also help to preserve the flavor and texture of the sauce.

To freeze the spaghetti, be sure to cook it according to the package instructions, and then let it cool completely. Once the spaghetti is cool, you can transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat the frozen spaghetti, be sure to add a bit of water or olive oil to the skillet, and to stir the spaghetti constantly while it's heating.

Some other tips for storing and reheating this dish include using a good-quality container or freezer bag, and being sure to label and date the container or bag. You can also add some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top of the spaghetti, as it will add a nice salty flavor and a bit of texture.

Overall, this Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or a more elaborate meal for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

The best type of pasta for this recipe is spaghetti, as it has a long and thin shape that pairs well with the garlic and red pepper flakes. You can also use other types of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, but spaghetti is the most traditional choice.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy or overcooked?

To prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy or overcooked, be sure to cook it according to the package instructions, and to stir it constantly while it's cooking. You can also add a bit of water or olive oil to the skillet, as it will help to prevent the spaghetti from sticking together and becoming unevenly cooked.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese in this recipe, such as mozzarella or ricotta. However, Parmesan cheese is the most traditional choice, and it has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the garlic and red pepper flakes.

How do I reheat the spaghetti?

To reheat the spaghetti, be sure to add a bit of water or olive oil to the skillet, and to stir the spaghetti constantly while it's heating. You can also reheat the spaghetti in the microwave, but be sure to cover it with a paper towel to prevent it from becoming dry or sticky.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time, but be sure to cook the spaghetti and the sauce separately, and then combine them just before serving. This will help to prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy or overcooked, and will also help to preserve the flavor and texture of the sauce.

What are some variations of this recipe?

Some variations of this recipe include adding some diced onions or sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, or using some other types of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. You can also add some cooked chicken or shrimp to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes, or use some other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or ricotta.

How do I store the spaghetti?

To store the spaghetti, be sure to cook it according to the package instructions, and then let it cool completely. Once the spaghetti is cool, you can transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the spaghetti?

Yes, you can freeze the spaghetti, but be sure to cook it according to the package instructions, and then let it cool completely. Once the spaghetti is cool, you can transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

The Full Recipe

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