If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful Italian pasta dish, look no further than Spaghetti Aglio, Olio, and Peperoncino!

This timeless recipe combines garlic, olive oil, and spicy chili peppers for a simple yet unforgettable meal. While there are gourmet versions and even Michelin-starred adaptations today, I’ll share a traditional, homemade recipe, just like Graziano’s mom used to make in Pontremoli.

How to Cook this italian pasta:

Prepare the ingredients: Finely chop the garlic, parsley, and fresh chili pepper.

Make the garlic oil: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté gently—be careful not to let it burn, as this will make it bitter.

Add the chili: When the garlic turns golden, add the chili pepper. Remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking.

Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.

Combine and finish: Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic, oil, and chili. Toss everything together over low heat for a couple of minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Serve: Plate the spaghetti and finish with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Grana Padano cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Aglio, Olio, and Peperoncino:

• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be golden, not brown.
• Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level.
• Try adding toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch and flavor.
• The final step in preparing the garlic, oil, and chili pepper is MANTECATURA “creaming”, which involves quickly mixing the cooked pasta with olive oil, garlic, and chopped chili pepper. This technique helps the pasta absorb the flavors evenly, creating a creamy, well-seasoned dish that enhances the simple but flavorful ingredients. Watch this video to learn the creaming technique, then surprise everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, linguine or vermicelli also work well.
• What’s the best cheese for this dish? Parmesan or Grana Padano are classic choices, but you can skip cheese for a vegan version.
• How do I make it less spicy? Simply use less chili pepper, or remove the seeds for a milder taste.

Try This Authentic Italian Pasta Tonight!

Spaghetti Aglio, Olio, and Peperoncino is the perfect recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want to impress with true Italian flavors. Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below!