Dad’s Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
When my Italian dad isn’t lost in his garden surrounded by heirloom tomatoes or enjoying his homemade wine on the patio, you can find him in the kitchen, crafting cherished family recipes. Among the numerous dishes he prepares, one stands out above the rest: his unbeatable Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. This beloved dish has become a staple in our home, and it only requires five simple ingredients!
What Makes Dad’s Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Special?
This light and creamy pasta dish features just five ingredients: spaghetti, garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, parsley, and reserved pasta water. Its simplicity is deceptive—this is a classic Italian dish with roots in Naples that never fails to impress.
Back in the day, our home was the welcoming locale for Sunday dinners with friends and family, filled with laughter and satisfaction. Today, that cherished tradition continues, and Dad’s Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is always a hit!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Fresh garlic, chopped | 2-3 large cloves |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1 ½ cups |
| Fresh parsley, finely chopped | 4 tablespoons (2 for sauce; 2 for garnish) |
| Reserved pasta water | 2-3 ladles |
| Hot pepper flakes (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water, adding 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
-
Make the Sauce:
- In a medium pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic, finely chopped parsley, parsley sprig, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer carefully to avoid burning.
-
Create the Creamy Texture:
- Stir in a ladle of pasta water into the sauce, letting it cook down. Repeat until the sauce reaches a slightly creamy consistency.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Once the spaghetti is tender, remove the parsley sprig from the sauce and add the spaghetti directly to the pan. Mix well using tongs.
-
Finish Cooking:
- For an additional 3-4 minutes, stir over low-to-medium heat, adding more pasta water as needed.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to a plate, garnish with the remaining parsley, and top with high-quality Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy!
Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful dish made with love and tradition. Dad’s Spaghetti Aglio e Olio truly never disappoints!