Classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet deeply satisfying pasta dish that highlights the power of minimalist Italian cooking. With just a handful of quality ingredients — olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, parsley, and spaghetti — this recipe transforms ordinary pantry staples into a flavorful, comforting meal. The beauty of Aglio e Olio lies in its balance: the fragrant garlic infuses the olive oil, the chili adds a gentle heat, and fresh parsley brings brightness and freshness. This dish exemplifies how technique and ingredient quality matter more than complexity. Instead of relying on heavy sauces or elaborate preparations, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio lets each element shine while combining into something greater than the sum of its parts. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a late-night comfort meal, or a base to customize with extras like sautéed shrimp or sautéed mushrooms, this dish delivers. Its ease of preparation makes it a go-to for cooks of all levels, and its elegant flavor profile makes it worthy of the dinner table. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, this classic Italian favorite remains a beloved staple in homes around the world.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
You will love making Classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio because it is both effortless and rewarding. With just a few ingredients — most of which you likely already have — you can create a dish that tastes restaurant-level. The key is technique: gently toasting sliced garlic in olive oil releases its aroma and flavor without burning, while the chili flakes infuse the oil with a subtle warmth that lingers in every bite. The result is a pasta that feels elegant despite its simplicity.
Another reason this recipe is so beloved is its versatility. Once you master the base, you can elevate it with optional additions like sautéed shrimp, roasted cherry tomatoes, or shaved Parmesan. It’s a perfect canvas for creativity, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences and what you have on hand.
This dish also cooks quickly — pasta and sauce come together in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays. Cleanup is just as simple, with only one pan used for the sauce and one pot for boiling the pasta.
Finally, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio bridges comfort and sophistication. It’s humble yet flavorful, familiar yet refined — a dish that comforts the soul while satisfying the senses. Whether cooking for yourself or guests, it delivers consistently delicious results.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
Extra virgin olive oil
Garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Red chili flakes (or fresh chili)
Fresh parsley, chopped
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: Parmesan cheese
Equipment Used
Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan
Knife
Cutting board
Tongs or pasta fork
Measuring spoons
Directions & Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat and pour in extra virgin olive oil. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook gently, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden. Avoid browning the garlic too much to prevent bitterness.
Sprinkle in red chili flakes and stir briefly to infuse the oil with heat. When the oil is aromatic and the garlic is lightly golden, remove the skillet from heat.
Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet and toss with tongs or a pasta fork to coat the noodles in the garlic-chili oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and create a light emulsion.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add chopped fresh parsley and continue to toss until well distributed.
Serve immediately in warmed bowls. Optionally, finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes — sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta are excellent additions.
Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Yes. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and binds it to the pasta.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free spaghetti in place of regular pasta.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
Reduce or omit the red chili flakes. You can add a pinch of black pepper for warmth instead.
Can this be prepared ahead?
The base sauce is best made fresh. You can cook the pasta ahead and toss with the sauce when ready to serve.
Pro Tips By Elisa
Use high-quality olive oil — it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Slice the garlic evenly so it cooks uniformly without burning.
Keep the heat moderate when toasting garlic; high heat can quickly scorch it.
Add pasta water gradually until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread or toasted sourdough complements the dish’s simplicity. If you added protein like sautéed shrimp or chicken, pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is an elegant example of how a few quality ingredients and simple techniques can yield extraordinary flavor. Its versatility, speed, and comforting taste make it a staple that you’ll return to again and again. Whether you enjoy it as a base or elevate it with additions, this timeless pasta recipe delivers satisfaction with effortless charm.