Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Tasty and Simple Recipe

Ingredients

• 400 g spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 0.5 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 lemon zest
• 1 lemon juice
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• to taste salt
• for serving grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown, being careful not to burn it, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Once the garlic is golden, add the red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
4. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water (start with ½ cup and add more if needed for moisture). Toss well to coat the pasta with the garlic oil.
5. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, and mix until everything is well incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and toss once more. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.