Herb and Garlic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
A classic Italian pasta dish with garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
Ingredients
- 400.0 g spaghetti
- 6.0 cloves garlic
- 0.5 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1.0 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1.0 cup fresh parsley
- 0.5 cup fresh basil
- 1.0 zest lemon
- 1.0 juice lemon
- 0.0 to taste salt
- 0.0 to taste freshly cracked black pepper
- 0.0 optional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
- Prepare the oil mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
- Add the heat: Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to infuse the oil with their spiciness.
- Combine with pasta: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic oil mixture. Carefully toss to coat the spaghetti evenly with the oil.
- Incorporate herbs and zest: Add the chopped parsley, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pasta. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time, until the desired creaminess is reached.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking.
- Serve: Divide the spaghetti among plates or serve family-style. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for spice level.