Spicy Garlic Oil Pasta
At its core, Spicy Pasta Aglio e Olio boasts a harmonious blend of garlic-infused olive oil, fiery red pepper flakes, and al dente pasta, all expertly crafted to deliver a satisfyingly flavorful experience with every forkful. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal shared with loved ones, this dish promises to tantalize the taste buds and transport you to the sun-kissed streets of Italy.
Equipment
- 400 g pasta
Ingredients
- 400 g pasta such as spaghetti or linguine
- 4-5 cloves of garlic finely minced or sliced
- 100 ml of extra virgin olive oil (1/2 cup)
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adjust to taste for desired level of spiciness
- Fresh parsley chopped optional, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving
- Fresh salad ingredients optional, for serving
- Chopped fresh chili peppers optional, for extra heat
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced or sliced garlic to the skillet and cook gently, stirring frequently, until fragrant and just starting to turn golden brown. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
- Add the Red Pepper Flakes: Once the garlic is fragrant, add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse the olive oil with the spicy flavor of the pepper flakes.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the spicy olive oil sauce. If the pasta seems dry, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the pasta and season with salt, if needed, to enhance the flavours. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve: Divide the Spicy Pasta Aglio e Olio among serving plates or bowls. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch. Serve immediately, along with crusty bread and a fresh salad, if desired.
- Enjoy: Buon appetito! Enjoy your Spicy Pasta Aglio e Olio with your favourite accompaniments and savour the bold flavours of Italy.