Classic Spaghetti Aglio, Olio, and Peperoncino: Authentic Italian Pasta Dish.
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—even Michelin-starred adaptations—today I’ll share a traditional homemade recipe, just like Graziano’s mom used to make in Pontremoli.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 200 grams (about 7 oz) of spaghetti
- 3–4 cloves of garlic
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh or crushed red chili pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan or Grana Padano cheese, grated
- Salt
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.
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!
