Spaghetti Aglio E Olio : A Simple and Flavorful Olive Oil and Garlic Pasta

When you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal that requires minimal ingredients, Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is the perfect dish. This classic Italian pasta recipe, which translates to “spaghetti with garlic and oil,” combines a few basic ingredients—olive oil, garlic, and chili flakes—into a mouthwatering meal that can be made in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just craving a simple pasta, Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is the go-to recipe. Here, we’ll show you how to make spaghetti aglio e olio, offer a vegan-friendly variation, and provide tips for enhancing your pasta with seasonal vegetables.

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What Is Spaghetti Aglio E Olio?

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is a traditional Italian dish from Naples, characterized by its simplicity and bold flavors. The basic recipe consists of spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of chili flakes for heat. The ingredients come together in a quick sauté, creating a sauce that coats the pasta and delivers incredible flavor.

This dish can be made in just a few steps, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting meal without the fuss. For a fun variation of a pasta dish with a similar vibe, try our Crispy Cottage Cheese Chips.

How to Make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio: Step-by-Step Recipe

Creating Spaghetti Aglio E Olio at home is incredibly easy, and the result is always satisfying. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free version)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional for non-vegan)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Save about a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add chili flakes: Once the garlic is golden, add the red chili flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the pan with the garlic and oil. Toss to coat the pasta in the flavorful oil. If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, cohesive sauce.
5. Season and serve: Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

For more pasta ideas that are light and healthy, check out Gluten-Free Veggie Pasta, a great option for a nutritious meal.

Vegan Spaghetti Aglio E Olio

This dish is already naturally vegan, but to ensure a completely plant-based meal, skip the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute instead. Vegan Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is perfect for those who enjoy the simplicity of Italian cuisine but prefer to keep their meals plant-based.

For other simple vegan pasta recipes, you can try out our Vegetarian Pasta Primavera. This light, fresh pasta dish is full of colorful vegetables and full of flavor!

Enhance Your Spaghetti Aglio E Olio with Vegetables

While Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is delicious on its own, you can add a healthy twist by incorporating vegetables into the dish. Try sautéing some spinach, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the garlic. These additions will give the dish extra texture, nutrients, and flavor.

For a pasta recipe with olive oil and vegetables, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or even some roasted broccoli, like in our Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon recipe. The possibilities are endless when it comes to enhancing your spaghetti and vegetables recipes.

Simple Vegan Pasta Recipes for Quick Meals

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is one of the easiest and most satisfying vegan pasta dishes you can make. But if you’re looking for more simple vegan pasta recipes, here are a few more ideas:

• Vegan Garlic and Oil Pasta: A variation of Aglio E Olio, this pasta uses garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
• Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets with Honey Mustard Sauce: This crispy side dish pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta for a complete vegan meal.

These recipes are quick to prepare and pack a punch in terms of flavor. For a sweet and savory vegan treat, try our Pumpkin Protein Muffins.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio without gluten?

Yes, you can easily make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio gluten-free by using gluten-free spaghetti or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is best enjoyed immediately, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan with a splash of olive oil and some water to loosen the sauce.

3. How can I add protein to this dish?

For extra protein, try adding sautéed chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. You could also toss in some roasted vegetarian meatballs for an even heartier meal.

4. What vegetables pair well with Spaghetti Aglio E Olio?

Zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted mushrooms all pair wonderfully with this dish. Adding vegetables will give the pasta more texture and flavor while keeping it light and healthy.

5. Can I make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio spicy?

Yes, the traditional recipe uses red chili flakes, but feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less. You can even experiment with different types of chili for varying heat levels.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Aglio E Olio is the ultimate quick and flavorful pasta dish, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it vegan, adding vegetables, or sticking to the classic recipe, this simple pasta recipe with olive oil is guaranteed to please. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, from those following a plant-based diet to gluten-free eaters looking for a delicious meal.

For other tasty pasta ideas, explore our Keto Salami Roll-Ups or Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal for a seasonal twist.

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