Linguine Aglio e Olio

Linguine Aglio e Olio, a classic Italian dish, is simplicity at its finest. With just a handful of ingredients, this flavorful pasta dish comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The combination of minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a hint of red pepper flakes creates a delightful harmony of flavors that coat each strand of al dente linguine. Finished with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Follow along with these easy steps to create a mouthwatering pasta dish that will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Linguine Aglio e Olio

Ingredients:

6 cloves garlic minced

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

salt to taste

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 pound linguine

1/4 cup fresh parsley minced

1 1/2 cups pasta water reserve a lot just in case

Instructions:

Step 1:

Cook Linguine to al dente in salted (2 tablespoons kosher salt per gallon) boiling water.

Reserve pasta water.

Step 2:

Heat a large pan to medium-low and saute the garlic in a 1/4 cup olive oil until lightly golden.

Once the garlic turns godlen (about 2 minutes) add in the red pepper flakes.

Cook for 30 seconds more.

Step 3:

Add in 1 ladle of pasta water to the garlic and oil.

Turn heat to medium.

Step 4:

Add in the linguine and toss to coat.

Stir quickly to emulsify the pasta water and oil.

Flip the pasta if you feel comfortable to increase emulsification.

Cook until the pasta is just done (around 1 minute) then remove the pan from the heat.

Step 5:

Taste test the pasta and add salt to taste.

Add a big drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and all the parsley to the pan.

Toss once more.

If the pasta is at all dry add a couple ounces at a time of the reserved pasta water to get the consistency just right.

Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Garlic Infusion: Sauteing the minced garlic in olive oil over medium-low heat allows its flavor to infuse into the oil, creating a rich and aromatic base for the pasta.

Balancing Heat: The addition of crushed red pepper flakes provides a subtle heat to the dish. Adjust the quantity according to your preference for spiciness.

Pasta Cooking Technique: Cooking the linguine until al dente ensures that it maintains a firm texture, providing a satisfying bite to the dish.

Emulsification: Stirring the linguine quickly in the garlic-infused oil and pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, ensuring that it coats the pasta evenly for maximum flavor in every bite.

Seasoning: Taste-testing the pasta before serving allows you to adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring that the dish is perfectly balanced in flavor.

Finishing Touch: Adding a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and fresh parsley at the end adds freshness and brightness to the dish, enhancing its overall taste and appearance.

Consistency: If the pasta appears dry, gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency of the sauce, ensuring that it coats the pasta evenly without being too thick or too thin.

Serve Immediately: Enjoy the Linguine Aglio e Olio immediately after preparing to savor its flavors at their peak. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin olive oil?

Yes, you can use regular olive oil if you prefer.

Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor, but regular olive oil works fine too.

Is there a substitute for fresh parsley?

Yes, you can use dried parsley flakes as a substitute.

However, fresh parsley adds a brighter flavor and aroma.

Can I use dried pasta instead of linguine?

Linguine is traditional for this dish, but you can use other types of pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer.

How spicy is this dish with the crushed red pepper flakes?

The amount of spice can be adjusted based on personal preference.

Start with 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild heat, and adjust according to taste.

Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?

Reserving pasta water helps adjust the consistency of the sauce.

It contains starch, which can help thicken the sauce and improve its texture.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.

How do I know when the linguine is al dente?

Linguine is al dente when it is cooked but still slightly firm to the bite.

Taste a strand of pasta to check for the desired texture.

Can I add other ingredients like shrimp or vegetables?

Yes, you can customize this dish by adding ingredients like shrimp, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.

Simply sauté them along with the garlic before adding the linguine.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. It doesn’t contain any meat or animal products.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free linguine or pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.