There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of spaghetti with olive oil and garlic. This dish, though simple, captures the essence of Italian cuisine—fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a touch of love in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, spaghetti with olive oil and garlic delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s a wonderful blank canvas to play with, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or enjoy it as is.
Why Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Garlic is Worth Your Time
This dish is not just about convenience; it’s a culinary delight that brings together the aromatic flavors of garlic and the richness of olive oil. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest meals can be the most satisfying. The beauty of spaghetti with olive oil and garlic lies in its versatility; you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick, or toss in some fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
Moreover, this dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something delicious in less than 30 minutes. And let’s not forget the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as the garlic sizzles in the olive oil—it’s sure to make your mouth water!
What’s in the Bowl
To create this delicious spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti – The base of our dish, providing the perfect al dente texture.
- ½ cup olive oil – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor.
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled and sliced very thinly – Fresh garlic is a must for that robust flavor.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes – For those who enjoy a little heat in their pasta.
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional) – A great addition for an herby flavor.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – For a creamy finish that ties the dish together.
Toolbox for This Recipe
Before diving into cooking, gather the following tools:
- Large pot – For boiling the spaghetti.
- Colander – To drain the pasta.
- Large skillet – For sautéing the garlic and combining the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon – Great for tossing everything together.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure you get the proportions just right.
Make Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Garlic: A Simple Method
Cooking spaghetti with olive oil and garlic is not only easy but also a delightful experience. Follow these steps for a perfect dish:
Step 1: 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. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium-low heat. You want it warm enough to infuse the garlic without burning it.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the sliced garlic to the skillet. Cook gently, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Step 4: Add the Red Pepper Flakes
Once the garlic is ready, add the red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing them to sauté for about 30 seconds.
Step 5: Combine the Spaghetti
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated in the garlic oil.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat and add in the chopped parsley and basil (if using). Toss again to incorporate. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and give it one last toss to combine.
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks
If you’re looking to lighten this dish or adjust it to fit your dietary preferences, consider these tweaks:
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier option.
- Replace some of the olive oil with vegetable broth for a lower-calorie version.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, for added nutrition and flavor.
- Experiment with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan alternative.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This spaghetti with olive oil and garlic is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken. For a more robust dish, consider pairing it with Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon Skillet or Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Skillet With Rice for a delightful meal.
Don’t shy away from adding a bit more garlic if you’re a fan; it truly elevates the dish. Also, remember to taste as you go—this will help you balance the flavors just right.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This spaghetti dish can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. To store:
- Allow the spaghetti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to loosen it up.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, linguine, or even penne.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. However, the flavor won’t be as robust. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 6 cloves of fresh garlic.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions to make this a heartier meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce just before serving.
If you loved this spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, you might also enjoy these recipes:
That’s a Wrap
The beauty of spaghetti with olive oil and garlic lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure Italian bliss!
Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Garlic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium-low heat. You want it warm enough to infuse the garlic without burning it.
- Add the sliced garlic to the skillet. Cook gently, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Once the garlic is ready, add the red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing them to sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated in the garlic oil.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and add in the chopped parsley and basil (if using). Toss again to incorporate. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and give it one last toss to combine.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Store cooled spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat by warming in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water.
