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Easy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Fresh Basil is a delightful Italian dish that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful meal. With its rich garlic aroma, a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, and the freshness of basil, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying plate of pasta that is both comforting and elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is not only quick to prepare, but it also highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients. It’s a go-to dish for busy nights, packed with flavor and comfort. Plus, it’s easily customizable!
- Quick and easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Minimal ingredients required, making it budget-friendly.
- Versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste.
- Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.
- Simply delicious with fresh basil and a sprinkle of cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How to Make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor.
- Once the pasta is drained, add it to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary to help the sauce coat the spaghetti.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped basil and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese and additional basil if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the garlic; cooking it slowly will enhance its sweetness.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Always reserve some pasta cooking water to help emulsify the sauce.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
- Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and sweetness.
- Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
What to Serve With It
- A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
- A glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Roasted vegetables for a hearty side.
Storage and Reheating
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Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
12 ounces spaghetti
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor.
4. Once the pasta is drained, add it to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary to help the sauce coat the spaghetti.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped basil and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese and additional basil if desired.
Notes:
Use high-quality olive oil and adjust the spice level to your liking. Enjoy!
