Naples has historically been a less prosperous city in Italy. This dish from the region reflects that with just a few ingredients sourced locally- whatever was on hand. Albeit minimalist, those ingredients combine to create a dish that is not only loved everywhere in Italy but is a staple of Italian restaurants worldwide.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil
This dish can be made in the time it takes to boil the spaghetti. It's a makes for a great weeknight meal or the premi (fist) coarse for a fancy Italian dinner. Be sure to use the best imported Italian spaghetti, extra-virgin olive oil, and pecorino-romano cheese you can find.
Print PinServings: 6
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large heavy skillet or wok
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1 lb Dried imported spaghetti
- 2 tbsp Salt
- ⅓ cup Good extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 cloves Garlic, slivered
- ½ tsp Crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup Parsely, minced
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 2 tbsp salt and spaghetti. Follow cooking directions on the box. Before draining, reserve 1 cup pasta water. Drain and mix in a little olive oil to keep from sticking.
- While spaghetti is finishing, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or wok big enough to hold the pasta. Add garlic and cook 2 minutes to turn it golden brown. Don't burn! Add red pepper flakes and cook 30 seconds more. Add reserved pasta liquid and bring to a boil. Turn heat to low, add salt, and simmer until liquid is reduced by a third.
- Add spaghetti to skillet/wok and toss. Remove pan from heat and add parsley and Pecorino cheese. Mix thoroughly and let rest for 5 minutes to absorb the sauce. Adjust salt and serve warm with parmesan cheese on the side.
Nutrition
Calories: 521kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 2822mg | Potassium: 214mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 213IU | Calcium: 342mg | Iron: 1mg