Easy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Parmesan and Basil

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If you’re craving a simple yet flavorful pasta dish, look no further than this Easy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Parmesan and Basil. This classic Italian recipe showcases the beauty of a few quality ingredients, coming together to create a delicious meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is all about bold flavors, fresh herbs, and satisfying comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is not just quick to prepare; it’s also incredibly satisfying. With the fragrant aroma of garlic and the richness of olive oil, each bite will have you coming back for more.

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal ingredients: Uses pantry staples for a wallet-friendly meal.
• Flavor-packed: Garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil create a symphony of taste.
• Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or vegetables for a twist.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for casual dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another minute. If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more pepper flakes.
4. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic oil until well coated. If the pasta seems dry, pour in some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, torn basil leaves, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps to create a creamy sauce.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes more vibrant than pre-grated.

Easy Variations

• Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Toss in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients.
• For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

What to Serve With It

• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to mop up the sauce.
• Roasted vegetables for a wholesome side.
• A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

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