Savory Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Simple Recipe Guide

Ingredients

• 400 g spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 0.5 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• to taste salt
• to taste freshly ground black pepper
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 zest lemon
• optional grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Once the garlic is ready, add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta in the garlicky oil. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
4. Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley and lemon zest for a bright flavor twist.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.