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Easy Garlic Aglio e Olio Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

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A quick and simple garlic aglio e olio pasta recipe that delivers comforting, flavorful meals in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti or linguine
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, adjust to taste
  • Salt (for pasta water and seasoning)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1/3 cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Taste a strand to check; it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Add 6 to 8 thinly sliced garlic cloves. Cook slowly to avoid burning, stirring often, until garlic turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes and toast gently for about 30 seconds. If using parsley, add it now to wilt slightly.
  4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a silky, glossy finish.
  5. Taste and season with salt if needed. Plate the pasta and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Cook garlic slowly over medium-low heat to avoid burning and achieve a nutty aroma. Use reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles. Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste for desired heat level. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet if possible for even heat distribution. Keep pasta warm by tossing with a little olive oil after draining.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic aglio e olio, quick pasta recipe, easy weeknight dinner, garlic pasta, olive oil pasta, simple Italian pasta

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