Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes is a timeless Italian classic that proves simplicity is often the key to unforgettable flavor. Originating from Naples, this beloved pasta dish relies on just a handful of pantry staples—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes—to create something deeply aromatic, comforting, and satisfying.

When gently sautéed in golden olive oil, garlic becomes sweet and fragrant, while red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that awakens the palate without overpowering the dish.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, late-night cravings, or whenever you want a restaurant-quality meal made in under 30 minutes.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it:

• Uses minimal ingredients with maximum flavor
• Comes together quickly and effortlessly
• Celebrates authentic Italian cooking techniques
• Is budget-friendly and endlessly adaptable
• Feels both comforting and elegant

It’s proof that great food doesn’t need to be complicated.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Italian comfort food
• Ready in under 25 minutes
• Naturally vegan and dairy-free
• Perfect for beginner cooks
• Easy to customize with add-ins

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: ~25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Calories: ~390–420 calories per serving (approx.)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Course / Pasta
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ¼ cup reserved pasta cooking water
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Cooking Directions

• Boil pasta until al dente
• Gently sauté garlic in olive oil
• Add red pepper flakes
• Toss pasta with sauce and finish with parsley

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Oil

1. Heat olive oil over medium-low heat in a wide pan.
2. Add sliced garlic and cook gently until lightly golden and fragrant (about 1–2 minutes).
3. Do not let garlic burn.

Step 3: Add Red Pepper Flakes

1. Stir in red pepper flakes and warm for 30 seconds to release their aroma.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add drained spaghetti to the pan.
2. Toss gently to coat in the garlic oil.
3. Add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

1. Season with salt and black pepper.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately while hot
• Garnish with extra parsley
• Add Parmesan cheese if desired
• Pair with crusty bread or a light salad
• Serve with a glass of white wine

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for best flavor
• Slice garlic thinly for even cooking
• Keep heat low to avoid bitter, burnt garlic
• Always salt pasta water generously
• Toss pasta thoroughly to emulsify sauce

Variations

1. Aglio e Olio with Shrimp: Add sautéed shrimp
2. Lemon Aglio e Olio: Finish with lemon zest and juice
3. Cheesy Version: Add Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
4. Green Aglio e Olio: Add spinach or broccoli rabe
5. Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for texture

Freezing and Storage

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days

Freezing

• Not recommended (olive oil may separate and pasta texture suffers)

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Wide sauté pan
• Tongs
• Knife and cutting board

Conclusion

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes is a celebration of simplicity, tradition, and bold flavor. With just a few humble ingredients, this dish delivers comforting warmth and authentic Italian charm in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or guests, this timeless pasta is always a winning choice—simple, elegant, and endlessly satisfying.

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Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes

Author: Anna Williams Cuisine: Italian Courses: Pasta

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 420 kcal

Description

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes is a timeless Italian classic that proves simplicity is often the key to unforgettable flavor. Originating from Naples, this beloved pasta dish relies on just a handful of pantry staples—spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes—to create something deeply aromatic, comforting, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 12 oz (340 g)
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ¼ cup reserved pasta cooking water
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Garlic Oil : Heat olive oil over medium-low heat in a wide pan. Add sliced garlic and cook gently until lightly golden and fragrant (about 1–2 minutes). Do not let garlic burn.
3. Add Red Pepper Flakes : Stir in red pepper flakes and warm for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce : Add drained spaghetti to the pan. Toss gently to coat in the garlic oil. Add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Finish the Dish : Season with salt and black pepper. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.

Keywords: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes