Spaghettini Aglio-Oglio

Spaghettini Aglio-Oglio Recipe from Italy with Olive Oil, Garlic, and Parsley

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 2

Introduction

Spaghettini Aglio-Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that is simple yet bursting with flavor. This dish features thin spaghetti tossed in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce, finished with fresh parsley. It is a quick and easy recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

Spaghettini Aglio-Olio originated in Italy, specifically in the region of Abruzzo. The dish is a staple in Italian cuisine and is loved for its simplicity and delicious taste. It is believed to have been created by Italian peasants who used simple, readily available ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

6 oz (170 g) of thin spaghetti
1 tbsp + 1 tsp of extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp or more of minced garlic
0.5 cup of low-sodium chicken broth
0.25 cup of chopped fresh parsley

How to prepare

In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta for 10 – 12 minutes, or until tender.
Drain the pasta and place it in a serving bowl.
Meanwhile, heat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds.
Add the oil and heat for an additional 30 seconds.
Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until it turns pale gold (do not let it brown), which should take about 1 minute.
Immediately stir in the broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring gently, then reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced by two thirds and the mixture thickens, which should take about 3 – 4 minutes.
Drizzle the thickened mixture over the cooked pasta, sprinkle with parsley, and toss to coat.

Variations

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Toss in some cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter if it browns too much.

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

- Toss the pasta with the sauce immediately after combining to ensure that the flavors are well distributed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spaghettini Aglio-Olio with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the garlic over low heat to prevent it from burning.

- Toss the pasta with the sauce off the heat to prevent the garlic from overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Make Ahead Tips

Spaghettini Aglio-Olio is best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic oil sauce ahead of time and toss it with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spaghettini Aglio-Olio with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 230 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 34g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Vitamin C: 5mg per serving

Alergens

Contains wheat

Summary

Spaghettini Aglio-Olio is a relatively low-calorie dish that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of iron and vitamin C.

Summary

Spaghettini Aglio-Olio is a delicious and simple pasta dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful garlic-infused olive oil sauce and fresh parsley, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day and I had just finished helping my neighbor Maria with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her kitchen to share a meal.

Maria was a wonderful cook, known throughout the neighborhood for her delicious Italian dishes. She had a way of making simple ingredients come to life with her magical touch. As we sat at her kitchen table, she brought out a steaming plate of Spaghettini Aglio-Oglio.

The aroma that wafted from the plate was intoxicating. The spaghettini was coated in a rich garlic and olive oil sauce, with a hint of red pepper flakes for a kick. The flavors danced on my taste buds, leaving me wanting more.

I begged Maria to share her recipe with me, and she obliged with a smile. She explained that the key to this dish was simplicity. It was all about using high quality ingredients and letting them shine.

She started by heating olive oil in a pan and gently sautéing thinly sliced garlic until it was fragrant and golden brown. Then she added a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, and a handful of chopped parsley for freshness.

Next, she cooked the spaghettini until it was al dente, then tossed it in the garlic and olive oil mixture until it was well coated. Maria finished the dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

As I took my first bite, I knew I had found a new favorite dish. The flavors were bold and comforting, the perfect combination of garlic, spice, and cheese. I savored each bite, not wanting the meal to end.

After that day, I made Spaghettini Aglio-Oglio whenever I wanted to transport myself back to Maria's kitchen. I would close my eyes and imagine her smiling face as she shared her recipe with me.

Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the recipe to make it my own. I added a splash of white wine to the garlic and olive oil mixture for a touch of acidity, and sometimes I would throw in a handful of cherry tomatoes for sweetness.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, and it became a staple at gatherings and potlucks. I loved seeing the smiles on their faces as they took their first bite, just like Maria had done for me all those years ago.

As I grew older, I realized that the true beauty of cooking lies in sharing recipes and memories with loved ones. Each dish tells a story, a connection to the past and a promise for the future.

And so, whenever I make Spaghettini Aglio-Oglio, I think of Maria and the day she introduced me to this magical dish. I am grateful for her generosity and her love, and I hope to pass on her recipe to future generations, just as she did for me.