Super Simple Aglio e Olio Spaghetti
Whip up Aglio e Olio Spaghetti in a Flash with Ingredients You Already Have!
Introducing a spaghetti dish that’s as easy to make as ramen! You can achieve a rich flavor even without store-bought sauces. It’s perfect for busy days, when you’re feeling a bit lazy, or want to use up leftover ingredients. It’s suitable as a solo meal or for a delightful dining experience on a special occasion. Give it a try!
Key Ingredients
- Spaghetti 100-120g (for 1 serving)
- Olive oil 5-6 Tbsp (Extra virgin)
- Minced garlic 1-2 Tbsp (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 Onion (thinly sliced or minced)
- A pinch of Parsley (dried or fresh, chopped)
- 1-2 Tbsp Grated cheese or Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare all your ingredients. Thinly slice or finely mince the onion. If using fresh parsley, chop it finely; dried parsley is also suitable for preparation.
Step 2
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 1/2 tsp of salt and then add the spaghetti. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, and cook for about 7-8 minutes, or 1 minute less than the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta in a colander, but do NOT rinse it with cold water! Rinsing washes away the starch, which helps the sauce adhere better.
Step 3
Heat 5-6 Tbsp of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic. Once the garlic becomes fragrant, reduce the heat to low and sauté slowly. Be careful not to burn the garlic; cook until it turns a light golden brown to deepen its flavor.
Step 4
When the garlic is nicely sautéed, add the prepared onion and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Once the onion is slightly softened, add the cooked spaghetti and 3-4 Tbsp of the reserved pasta water. Stir-fry quickly. This step emulsifies the sauce, helping it coat the pasta beautifully. Taste and add a tiny pinch of salt if needed to adjust seasoning.
Step 5
Transfer the well-stirred spaghetti to a serving plate. Finish by sprinkling grated cheese or shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of chopped parsley. Your delicious Aglio e Olio spaghetti, with its pungent garlic aroma and savory cheese flavor, is ready! Enjoy it while it’s warm.