Italian Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil Sauce – Authentic Italian Recipe
Simple, flavorful, and timeless—this Italian pasta with garlic olive oil sauce is a classic recipe that highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients. With al dente pasta, golden sautéed garlic, and rich olive oil, it’s the perfect dish for weeknight dinners, date nights, or authentic Italian-inspired meals.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (or linguine)
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
- Pro Tip: Use high-quality olive oil for authentic flavor.
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook until golden (not burnt).
- Add Chili Flakes: Stir in red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Combine Pasta: Add drained spaghetti to skillet. Toss with garlic oil, adding reserved pasta water for silkiness.
- Finish: Stir in chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt.
- Serve: Plate hot, garnish with Parmesan if desired.
- Important: Garlic should be golden, not brown—burnt garlic will make the dish bitter.
Notes
- Salt pasta water generously—it seasons the dish.
- Slice garlic evenly for consistent cooking.
- Use fresh parsley for brightness.
- Don’t skip pasta water—it helps emulsify the sauce.
- Best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be reheated gently with olive oil.