Garlic Olive Oil Pasta: Easy & Flavorful Recipe.

Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta?

I think not! And when that pasta is coated in a luscious garlic-infused olive oil, it’s pure magic. This Garlic Olive Oil Pasta recipe, often referred to as Aglio e Olio, is a testament to the power of simplicity. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s incredibly fast to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table in minutes.
• The flavor is amazing! The combination of garlic, olive oil, and a touch of red pepper flakes is simply irresistible.
• It uses only a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
• This dish is easily customizable – add protein, vegetables, or fresh herbs to make it your own.
• It’s an impressive dish that tastes like it took hours to make, but it’s actually incredibly easy.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

While many recipes for Garlic Olive Oil Pasta exist, this one emphasizes the importance of toasting the garlic to release its full flavor without burning it. Also, we’re using a generous amount of good-quality extra virgin olive oil, which not only adds flavor but creates a beautifully silky sauce. Finally, a splash of pasta water at the end is key to creating a luscious emulsified sauce that clings to the noodles perfectly.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (good quality makes a difference!)
• 8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more for the pasta water
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the garlic. Thinly slice the garlic cloves.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
5. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining it. Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil.
6. Place skillet back on medium-low heat. Toss the pasta to coat it with the olive oil and garlic. Add the reserved pasta water and toss again, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. The starchy pasta water helps to create a light sauce.
7. Stir in salt, black pepper and chopped fresh parsley (if using). Toss well.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve immediately, topped with grated parmesan cheese (if using).

Optional Toppings/Variations

This simple recipe is a great base for endless variations. Here are a few ideas:

• Add protein: Grilled shrimp, chicken, or Italian sausage would all be delicious. Cook the protein separately and add it to the skillet with the pasta.
• Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms would all be great additions. Add the vegetables to the skillet before adding the pasta.
• Lemon zest and juice: A squeeze of lemon juice and some zest at the end will add a bright, fresh flavor.
• Toasted breadcrumbs: Add some crispy toasted breadcrumbs for added texture. Simply toast some breadcrumbs in a dry pan with a little olive oil until golden brown.

Expert Tips

• Don’t burn the garlic! Keep the heat low and watch it carefully while it’s cooking. Burnt garlic will make the dish bitter.
• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It makes a huge difference!
• Salt your pasta water generously. This will ensure the pasta is properly seasoned. The water should taste like the sea.
• Don’t skip the pasta water! This helps to create a luscious, emulsified sauce that clings to the noodles.
• Serve immediately. This dish is best served right away while it’s hot and the sauce is at its peak.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? Yes, you can use dried parsley, but fresh parsley will provide a brighter flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley as a substitute for ¼ cup of fresh parsley.
• Can I use pre-minced garlic? While you can use pre-minced garlic, it won’t have the same flavor as fresh, thinly sliced garlic. I highly recommend using fresh for this dish.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? This dish is best served immediately, as the sauce tends to get absorbed by the pasta over time. However, you can prep the garlic and measure out other ingredients in advance.
• Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Any type of pasta will work, such as penne, linguine, or bucatini.
• How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little olive oil or in the microwave.

Variations and Customization Options

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the possibilities for customization. Here are some more ideas:

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Add some cooked shrimp and more red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Garlicky Lemon Spinach Pasta: Add sautéed spinach and a squeeze of lemon juice and some zest at the end.
• Roasted Garlic and Tomato Pasta: Roast garlic and cherry tomatoes in the oven, and then toss with the cooked pasta.
• Add a touch of white wine: Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine after cooking the garlic. Let it reduce slightly before adding the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Olive Oil Pasta is delicious on its own as a quick and satisfying meal. It also makes a fantastic side dish to complement grilled meats, fish, or chicken. Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also a great base to add vegetables or proteins to as mentioned above.

Conclusion

This Garlic Olive Oil Pasta recipe is a true weeknight winner – it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and totally customizable. It’s the perfect dish to impress your friends and family, and it’s so simple you’ll want to make it again and again. Give this recipe a try and I promise, you will not be disappointed! Don’t forget to snap a photo of your beautiful creation and share it with me! Also, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for more amazing and easy recipes.