Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Cook This Meal

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 3 tbsp olive oil extra virgin if possible
• 5 cloves garlic thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to heat preference
• 1/4 cup parsley chopped
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water use as needed
• 1 tsp lemon juice optional brightness
• optional parmesan for serving
• to taste salt and black pepper

Steps

1. Boil spaghetti in well-salted water until just al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. While pasta cooks, warm olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Add sliced garlic and cook slowly until pale golden and fragrant, not dark brown.
4. Add red pepper flakes and stir for a few seconds.
5. Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with a splash of pasta water.
6. Toss until the oil and pasta water lightly coat the noodles.
7. Stir in parsley, black pepper, and lemon juice if using.
8. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, chili, or pasta water before serving.