Spaghetti Aglio e Olio e Peperoncino

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio e Peperoncino is a classic Italian pasta dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe celebrates the harmony of garlic, olive oil, and a hint of chili flakes, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with loved ones, this recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Let’s delve into the art of creating this timeless Italian favorite, where every bite is a celebration of Italian culinary tradition.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio e Peperoncino

Ingredients:

4 garlic cloves sliced thinly in oval shape

10 g fresh parsley chopped thinly

200 g spaghetti gluten free if needed

60 ml (1/4 cup) olive oil

1/4 tsp chilli flakes optional

salt to taste

a pinch of black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1:

Heat 2L of water in a large pot.

While the water is getting hot, chop garlic cloves into thin oval shapes and chop parsley thinly (mostly the leaf parts).

Step 2:

When the water in the pot boils, add 2 tsp of salt and then the pasta.

Wait for it to boil again then lower the heat to medium and cook 2 min less than it says in the instructions on the box of pasta.

Step 3:

At the same time as the pasta starts to cook heat olive oil in the pan over low or low to medium heat.

Put garlic, parsley and if making aglio, olio e peperoncino also chilli flakes into the pan.

Gently toast the garlic and don’t let it burn.

Step 4:

2 min before the pasta is cooked turn the heat off, take the pasta out with pasta tongs and put it into the pan with oil.

With ladle take a little bit of water where the pasta was cooking and put it into the pan with oil and pasta.

Shake and toss the pasta so that the water emulsifies with olive oil and create a sauce.

Cook until the pasta absorbs the liquid.

Add more cooking water if needed until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5:

Remove from the heat

Add salt (I added just 1/16 tsp) and mix.

Step 6:

Divide between two plates.

Sprinkle black pepper on top.

Serve immediately.

Notes:

Simple Ingredients: This recipe for Spaghetti Aglio e Olio e Peperoncino (Spaghetti with Garlic, Oil, and Chili) requires just a handful of basic ingredients, making it a go-to option for a quick and flavorful pasta dish.

Balanced Flavors: The combination of garlic, olive oil, parsley, and optional chili flakes creates a harmonious blend of flavors, with the garlic adding depth, the olive oil providing richness, and the chili flakes adding a subtle kick of heat.

Gluten-Free Option: This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free spaghetti, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple instructions and minimal cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal on the table in a hurry.

Customizable: The recipe is highly customizable based on personal preferences. You can adjust the amount of garlic, chili flakes, and parsley to suit your taste, making it versatile and adaptable to different flavor preferences.

Emulsified Sauce: The technique of emulsifying pasta water with olive oil creates a light yet flavorful sauce that coats the pasta evenly, ensuring each bite is infused with delicious flavor.

Light and Fresh: This dish is light and fresh, making it a perfect option for warmer weather or when you’re craving something not too heavy.

Serving Size: The recipe provides nutrition information based on one serving, making it easy to track your intake if you’re monitoring your calorie or macronutrient intake.

Presentation: Garnishing the dish with a sprinkle of black pepper adds visual appeal and a burst of flavor, enhancing the overall presentation of the dish.

Immediate Serving: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio e Peperoncino is best served immediately after preparation to ensure optimal flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

Yes, you can easily adjust the spiciness of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio e Peperoncino by adding more or fewer chili flakes according to your preference.

Is fresh parsley necessary, or can I use dried parsley?

While fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor and color, you can substitute it with dried parsley if needed.

However, adjust the quantity as dried parsley is more potent than fresh.

Can I use regular spaghetti instead of gluten-free spaghetti?

Absolutely! You can use regular spaghetti if you don’t require a gluten-free option.

The cooking instructions remain the same regardless of the type of spaghetti used.

Is it necessary to toast the garlic?

Toasting the garlic enhances its flavor and aroma, but be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep the heat low to medium-low and stir the garlic frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

What is the purpose of emulsifying the pasta water with olive oil?

Emulsifying the pasta water with olive oil helps create a light, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta evenly, enhancing its taste and texture.

Can I make this dish without chili flakes?

Yes, you can omit the chili flakes if you prefer a milder version of the dish.

The chili flakes add a subtle heat, but the dish will still be delicious without them.

How do I know when the pasta is al dente?

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

You can taste a small piece to check for the desired texture.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio e Peperoncino is best served immediately after preparation to enjoy its fresh flavors and textures.

It’s not recommended for making ahead as the pasta may become mushy upon reheating.

Can I add additional ingredients to this dish?

While the recipe is traditionally simple, you can customize it by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, or cooked shrimp to enhance its flavor and nutritional profile.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the additional ingredients.