Spaghetti Leglio E'Olio
Spaghetti Leglio E'Olio is a simple yet flavorful Italian dish featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a fragrant garlic and olive oil sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering, it highlights the bold, aromatic flavors of garlic and high-quality olive oil with a touch of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic in olive oil over low to medium heat for about 10 minutes, ensuring it does not brown.
- Cover and keep hot.
- Bring 4 to 6 quarts of water to a boil, add salt, and cook the spaghetti until tender.
- Drain the spaghetti, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Stir the reserved pasta water into the garlic and olive oil mixture.
- Pour the mixture over the cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and olive oil mixture. If you're out of Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano works as a great substitute. Be cautious not to brown the garlic; burnt garlic can turn bitter. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with a generous topping of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of Italian Flat Bread can complement this dish beautifully. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing salad. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to prevent the spaghetti from drying out. Heat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Leglio E'Olio contains roughly 1408 calories, with 9g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 762mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. Just make sure to cook the vegetables until tender before mixing them with the pasta.
What type of olive oil should I use?
For the best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil. The oil is a key ingredient in this dish, so choosing one with a good taste will elevate the overall dish. Avoid using light olive oil, as it lacks the rich flavor needed for this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic and oil mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently when you're ready to serve. Just cook the spaghetti fresh to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).