Difficulty Level: Beginner
Why it’s great for your cooking channel: This recipe is ideal for your cooking channel because it highlights the beauty of simplicity in cooking. It’s quick, uses pantry staples, and showcases authentic Italian flavors. Plus, viewers will appreciate the ease with which they can recreate this classic dish at home.
Description: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet flavorful Italian dish that consists of spaghetti tossed in olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. With minimal ingredients, it’s a perfect example of how a few quality elements can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serving size: Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 400g spaghetti
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon zest (optional for extra freshness)
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. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. - Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn them. This should take about 2-3 minutes. - Add Red Pepper Flakes:
Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to infuse the oil with heat. - Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic-infused oil. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the spaghetti is well-coated and glossy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. - Finish with Parsley:
Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. If desired, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or some lemon zest for added brightness. - Serve:
Plate the spaghetti immediately, ensuring an even distribution of garlic and oil. Garnish with more parsley or cheese if preferred.
Final Thoughts: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a perfect dish for showcasing how simplicity can result in an elegant and delicious meal. Its versatility allows for personalization—whether you add Parmesan, lemon zest, or extra spice, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. For your cooking channel, it’s a great opportunity to teach viewers that incredible dishes don’t need to be complex. Plus, it’s quick enough for weeknight meals, making it a go-to recipe for busy home cooks.
