Aglio Olio Peperoncino e Prezzemolo
Aglio Olio Peperoncino E Prezzemolo, a classic Italian pasta dish, is simplicity at its finest. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of garlic, chili pepper, and parsley, infused in extra virgin olive oil, creates a sauce that perfectly coats each strand of spaghetti.
It’s a dish that celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine – using quality ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and satisfying. Follow along with these easy steps to bring the flavors of Italy to your dinner table tonight.
Aglio Olio Peperoncino E Prezzemolo
Ingredients:
200g Spaghetti
2 cloves Garlic
1 Dried chili pepper
Extra virgin olive oil, to taste
Parsley, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1:
Cook the spaghetti in boiling, salted water.
Pour plenty of oil into a pan and add the finely chopped and cored garlic cloves, together with two stalks of parsley.
Step 2:
Add the dried chilli and cook over a very low heat.
Drain the pasta al dente and add it to the pan with the sauce, after removing the parsley stems.
Add a little cooking water if necessary and risotto the pasta for a few minutes.
Step 3:
Stir in the finely chopped parsley and extra virgin olive oil off the heat.
Notes:
Classic Italian Dish: Aglio Olio Peperoncino E Prezzemolo, or simply Aglio Olio, is a classic pasta dish originating from Italy, known for its simplicity and robust flavors.
Few Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients including spaghetti, garlic, chili pepper, parsley, and olive oil, this dish highlights the essence of Italian cuisine, where quality ingredients shine.
Cooking Technique: The key to this recipe lies in the cooking technique. The garlic and parsley are gently sautéed in olive oil, infusing it with their flavors, while the dried chili adds a subtle kick of heat.
Al Dente Pasta: Cooking the spaghetti al dente ensures that it retains its texture and bite, providing a satisfying mouthfeel to the dish.
Customizable: This recipe allows for customization based on personal preferences. You can adjust the amount of garlic, chili, and parsley according to taste.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal preparation, Aglio Olio is a quick and easy dish to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
Versatile: While traditionally served as a standalone dish, Aglio Olio can also be paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to create a more substantial meal.
Balanced Flavors: The combination of garlic, chili, parsley, and olive oil creates a harmonious balance of flavors – savory, spicy, and herbaceous – that will awaken your palate.
Healthy Option: Made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil and parsley, this dish offers a healthy alternative to heavier pasta sauces while still delivering on taste.
Serving Suggestions: Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added depth of flavor, and serve alongside a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite wine for a complete Italian dining experience.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350 | Carbohydrates: 40 grams | Protein: 8 grams | Fat: 15 grams | Fiber: 2 grams | Sodium: 300 milligrams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe, or does it have to be spaghetti?
While spaghetti is traditional for Aglio Olio Peperoncino, you can use other types of pasta like linguine or fettuccine if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How much extra virgin olive oil should I use?
The amount of olive oil can vary depending on personal preference.
Start with about 3-4 tablespoons and adjust according to taste.
The oil should be enough to coat the pasta and create a flavorful sauce.
Is it okay to use fresh chili peppers instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh chili peppers instead of dried ones.
Adjust the quantity according to your desired level of spiciness.
Be sure to remove the seeds if you prefer a milder heat.
Can I add other ingredients to this dish, such as shrimp or vegetables?
Absolutely! Aglio Olio Peperoncino is a versatile dish, and you can customize it with additional ingredients like shrimp, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.
Just be mindful of the cooking times for any additional ingredients you add.
What does “risotto the pasta” mean in Step 2 of the instructions?
“Risotto the pasta” refers to the technique of cooking the pasta in the sauce for a few minutes after it’s been drained.
This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce and finish cooking to al dente texture.
Stirring occasionally helps distribute the sauce evenly.
How do I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of dried chili pepper used.
You can increase or decrease the quantity of chili flakes based on your preference for heat.
Can I use fresh chili peppers instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh chili peppers instead of dried ones.
Adjust the quantity according to your desired level of spiciness.
Remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
How finely should I chop the garlic and parsley?
Finely chop the garlic to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish.
Similarly, finely chop the parsley for even flavor distribution.
What does “cooking the pasta al dente” mean?
“Al dente” refers to cooking pasta until it is firm to the bite but not overcooked or mushy.
It should have a slight resistance when bitten.
Can I add additional ingredients to the dish?
Yes, you can customize the dish by adding ingredients like shrimp, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to remove the parsley stems before adding to the pan?
Yes, it’s recommended to remove the parsley stems before adding them to the pan to avoid any woody or fibrous texture in the dish.