Spaghetti with Olive oil and Garlic

Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Garlic Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spaghetti with olive oil and garlic is a classic Italian dish that is simple yet flavorful. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

This dish has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The combination of olive oil and garlic is a classic pairing that enhances the flavor of the spaghetti. It is a popular dish in Italy and has made its way into kitchens around the world.

Ingredients

spaghetti (The amount of spaghetti to use will depend on the number of people you are serving, so I will not specify a specific amount here. If you don't like spaghetti, you can use your favorite pasta. penne rigate works very well with this as well)
0.13 to 0.25 cup of olive oil
1 whole garlic bulb, minced
garlic powder
A small handful of dried or fresh oregano
cheese, to taste, whatever sort you enjoy

How to prepare

Cook the spaghetti according to the serving size and package instructions.
Season the water with a generous amount of salt.
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat approximately 0.13 to 0.25 cup of olive oil and add one minced garlic clove.
Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
Cook the oil and garlic mixture for a few minutes until the garlic infuses the oil.
Drain the pasta or spaghetti and return it to the pot.
Add the garlic oil, garlic powder, and a small handful of dried or fresh oregano.
Mix everything together well.
Serve with cheese.
The dish should have a pronounced garlic flavor, but the cheese will balance out its intensity.

Variations

Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
Add some cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.

- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

- Season the water generously with salt before cooking the spaghetti.

- Feel free to add other herbs or spices to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a true Italian dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this dish is infusing the olive oil with garlic to create a flavorful base for the spaghetti. Be sure to cook the garlic gently to avoid burning it.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have oregano, you can use basil or parsley instead. You can also use any type of cheese you prefer, such as Parmesan or Pecorino.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garlic oil ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Cook the spaghetti just before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a large pasta bowl for a rustic feel.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a variety of wines, such as Chianti or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Spaghetti is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. Each serving of this dish contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Olive oil is a healthy source of fats, providing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Each serving of this dish contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

While this dish is not high in protein, the cheese added at the end provides some protein. Each serving contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese. Oregano is rich in antioxidants and vitamin K. Each serving of this dish provides a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (spaghetti), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Spaghetti with olive oil and garlic is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spaghetti with Olive oil and Garlic. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. My grandmother, Nonna Maria, was a wonderful cook who could whip up the most delicious meals with just a few simple ingredients.

One day, I watched as Nonna Maria prepared this dish for our family dinner. The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I asked her where she had learned to make such a simple yet flavorful dish, and she smiled and told me a story that I will never forget.

Nonna Maria explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She told me that the secret to making the perfect spaghetti with olive oil and garlic was to use only the freshest ingredients and to cook them with love and care.

As I watched Nonna Maria toss the al dente spaghetti in the fragrant olive oil and garlic mixture, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. I begged her to teach me, and she agreed, happy to pass on her knowledge to the next generation.

Over the years, I practiced making spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, experimenting with different amounts of garlic, olive oil, and pasta to find the perfect balance of flavors. I learned to infuse the oil with garlic slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, savory sauce that coated the pasta perfectly.

I also discovered that the quality of the olive oil and garlic was crucial to the success of the dish. I made sure to use only the best extra virgin olive oil and the freshest garlic I could find, ensuring that every bite of spaghetti was bursting with flavor.

As I grew older, I continued to make spaghetti with olive oil and garlic for my own family, passing down the recipe and the tradition to my children and grandchildren. It became a staple in our household, a dish that we would enjoy together on lazy Sunday afternoons or special occasions.

I also shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who were always amazed at the simplicity and deliciousness of the dish. They would ask me for the recipe, and I would gladly pass it on, knowing that I was sharing a piece of my family's history with them.

To this day, whenever I make spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, I am transported back to that small village in Italy, watching my grandmother cook with love and passion. I am grateful for the memories and the traditions that she passed down to me, and I will always cherish the time spent learning how to make this simple yet unforgettable dish.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and traditions that will last a lifetime. And I am grateful for the gift of cooking that my grandmother gave me, a gift that I will continue to pass on to future generations.