Irresistible Macaroni Aglio e Olio in 15 Minutes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Macaroni Aglio e Olio. Picture this: tender pasta coated in a golden, garlicky embrace, kissed by the warmth of red pepper flakes and the freshness of parsley. Tomato Ricotta Pasta recipe The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table like moths to a flame, eager for that first bite. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that tickles your taste buds and warms your heart.

I remember the first time I made Macaroni Aglio e Olio for my friends during a cozy Friday night dinner. As they took their first bites, the room filled with laughter and compliments; it was a simple yet unforgettable moment. Basil Pesto Puff Pastry Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering, this delightful dish never fails to impress. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’ll have you saying “Mamma Mia!” with every forkful.

I once made this dish for my family reunion, and they all left the table with full bellies and big smiles.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use any small pasta shape you love; I usually go for elbow macaroni for nostalgia.

• Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves; the fresher the better for that aromatic punch.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Select high-quality oil for rich flavor; it makes all the difference.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust according to your heat preference; these little flakes pack quite a kick!

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; always use fresh when possible.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go along to achieve perfection.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add salt generously—this is where your pasta absorbs its first layer of flavor!

Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil: In a separate pan over medium heat, warm olive oil until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant—be careful not to burn it!

Add Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes while stirring the garlic mixture. Let them sizzle in the oil for about 30 seconds to release their essence.

Toss Pasta with Sauce: Drain your pasta but save some cooking water. Combine pasta with garlic oil, adding reserved water as needed to create a silky sauce.

Finish with Parsley and Seasoning: Remove from heat, toss in chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything one last gentle mix before serving.

Enjoy this scrumptious Macaroni Aglio e Olio warm, letting its flavors dance on your palate! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Italian Ground Chicken Soup recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta first, then sauté garlic in olive oil while the pasta cooks. This ensures that both elements are ready to combine seamlessly, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the olive oil for chili oil for an added kick. Toss in some sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken to make it heartier, or add fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Thai Red Curry Chicken.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Macaroni Aglio e Olio in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to maintain its deliciousness without drying it out.

I remember the first time I made Macaroni Aglio e Olio for friends; they were blown away by how something so simple could taste so amazing! Their reactions were priceless, and now it’s a staple at our gatherings. Bruschetta Pizza for gatherings.

FAQ

What type of pasta is best for Macaroni Aglio e Olio?

Use spaghetti or linguine for traditional textures and flavors in this dish.

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

Fresh garlic provides better flavor; pre-minced can lack that aromatic punch.

Is Macaroni Aglio e Olio suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this dish is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegans looking for quick meals.

Print

Macaroni Aglio e Olio

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Michaela Thompson
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Macaroni Aglio e Olio is a comforting Italian classic that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This simple yet delicious dish features tender pasta enveloped in fragrant garlic oil, with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Perfect for a weeknight meal or an impromptu gathering, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. Gather your ingredients and let the aroma fill your kitchen as you create this delightful culinary experience.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden brown (about 2 minutes), being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and let them sizzle in the oil for about 30 seconds.
4. Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water, then combine it with the garlic oil mixture in the pan. Add reserved water as needed to create a silky sauce.
5. Remove from heat, toss in chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 0mg