Aglio Olio is an Italian pasta dish with a simple yet tantalizing flavour profile. With just a few ingredients like garlic, chilli, olive oil, and a sprinkle of herbs, you can create this enticing dish at home. Below is the recipe, instructions, tips, variations, and calorie information for making the perfect Aglio Olio Pasta.
Ingredients:
- 300 grams of spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
- 4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 red chillies, thinly sliced (optional, to taste)
- 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add spaghetti or your chosen pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Aglio Olio:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the sliced garlic and red chillies (if using) until fragrant and the garlic turns golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the butter and let it melt completely in the skillet.
- Once the butter has melted, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Stir well until the pasta is coated with the oil and garlic.
Serve:
- Remove the Aglio Olio Pasta from the skillet and serve it on a serving plate.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top according to your preference.
- Serve immediately while still warm for the best flavour.
Tips:
- Make sure to keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing to prevent it from burning and imparting a bitter taste to the dish.
- For variations, add shrimp, sliced mushrooms, or vegetables like broccoli or asparagus while sautéing the garlic for a more diverse dish.
- If you like it spicy, add more red chillies or sprinkle some red pepper flakes.
- Choose high-quality pasta for the best results.
Variations:
- Aglio Olio with Shrimp: Add peeled and cleaned shrimp when sautéing the garlic. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Aglio Olio with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms when sautéing the garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
- Aglio Olio with Vegetables: Add your favourite vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes when sautéing the garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
Calories:
- A serving of Aglio Olio Pasta (about 200 grams) contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and additional ingredients used.
Conclusion:
Aglio Olio Pasta is a simple yet flavorful pasta dish, with rich garlic notes and a hint of spiciness from the red chillies. With this recipe, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish at home, tailored to your taste and preferences. Experiment with various variations and additions to create a unique and appealing Aglio Olio according to your liking. Enjoy and happy cooking!
