To get a smooth and shiny sauce that is not oily, combine olive oil with the pasta's cooking water. When you drain the spaghetti, reserve some of the starchy water. Then add this water, along with chilli, to the pan containing sautéed garlic in olive oil and let it simmer. Toss the spaghetti in this mixture, allowing the starch from the water to blend with the oil, which creates a glossy sauce that evenly coats the spaghetti.
To keep spaghetti aglio e olio fresh, allow it to cool at room temperature and seal it in a container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to three days. When it is time to reheat, add a bit of water over the pasta to blend the flavours and oils well. Warm it up on the stove, stirring often to get the best flavour and texture. This approach helps keep the dish delicious, just like when it was first made.
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Add an Italian touch to your kitchen with our tips.
Select a top-tier extra virgin olive oil for your spaghetti aglio e olio. This oil forms the sauce's foundation and infuses the dish with distinct flavors that blend well with garlic and chilli flakes. You can sample a variety of high-quality olive oils to find the one that best enhances the flavors of your ingredients.
Watch your garlic closely as it fries to prevent a bitter taste. Aim for a light golden color and remove the pan from the heat immediately if the garlic darkens too quickly. Use fresh, thinly sliced garlic. If the garlic starts to burn, discard it and start again with fresh oil and garlic to preserve the dish's flavor.
Try your hand at an Italian classic with our tasty spaghetti aglio e olio recipe. This dish is renowned for its simple ingredients that come together to create a savory and slightly spicy dish. It is perfect for those seeking an easy-to-make dish with plenty of flavor.
Pasta dishes tend to be popular, so why not explore more recipes? We recommend a Carbonara with egg yolk, Pesto Spaghetti, or Spicy prawn spaghetti.
The secret to a delicious spaghetti aglio e olio lies in the harmonious blend of rich garlic flavor and the gentle heat from chilli flakes. The garlic is cut into thin slices and sautéed in olive oil until it achieves a golden-brown color, releasing its aromatic oils. Chilli flakes add a subtle but invigorating warmth, perfectly balancing the savory notes of the dish with a hint of spiciness. This combination, though simple, is wonderfully delicious.
Spaghetti aglio e olio is the perfect dish to garnish with beautiful and tasty toppings. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta to add a bit of color and freshness. The light, herbaceous notes from parsley help balance the rich garlic and olive oil. As with many pasta dishes, we garnish with some finely grated cheese for a final flourish.
Spaghetti aglio e olio can easily stand on its own, but it also pairs well with various sides for a fuller meal. Consider trying a light salad with a vinaigrette dressing. Opt for a simple Italian salad with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and lemon for a palate cleanser. If you are after a heartier experience, try roasting vegetables like aubergine, red peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Their natural sweetness and caramelised edges blend well with the pasta's simple flavors.
For a savory touch, go with grilled meats like chicken or fish. A grilled chicken breast or sea bass fillet can turn the dish into one fit for special occasions. Similarly, adding grilled seafood such as prawns or calamari brings a Mediterranean flair.
Adjust the heat to suit the palate. Those who prefer less spice can use fewer chilli flakes, while others might enjoy an extra pinch for more zing. The timing of when you add the chilli flakes also influences the dish's heat intensity. Adding them early allows the heat to gently infuse the oil while adding them later results in a bolder flavor.
Feel free to experiment with secondary ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or sautéed spinach without compromising the dish's rustic appeal. Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy flavor, while the olives introduce bold, briny notes that enhance the spaghetti. Both integrate seamlessly. Sautéed spinach contributes a deep green color and fresh, earthy flavors that balance the spiciness beautifully.
Fall in love with pasta all over again, as you serve your loved ones creamy dishes made richer with Puck—and your special touch. Our inspiring recipes, general guidelines, and detailed articles will set you on the path to culinary creativity. With Puck’s entire range of cooking creams and sauces that meet your high standards, you’ll love putting your personal spin on pasta.