Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Ingredients:
- 200g spaghetti
- 4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt (for the pasta water)
Instructions:
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 9 minutes).
- Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Prepare the Aglio e Olio Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic turns golden brown (but be careful not to burn it!).
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Once the garlic is golden, add the drained spaghetti to the pan, tossing it in the garlic oil to coat evenly.
- Add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to help mix everything together and create a silky sauce.
Season and Serve:
- Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest for a refreshing twist.
- For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken.
This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for beginners. It also offers a lot of room for creativity as you experiment with different flavors!
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