How to Make the Perfect Aglio Olio Chili Flakes
Italian · Easy · 15 min · 2 servings
This fiery garlic and olive oil pasta is a beloved Italian classic that comes together in just 15 minutes with minimal ingredients. A quick recipe that proves the simplest things in life are often the most delicious.
Why this recipe works
This Aglio Olio Chili Flakes recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 450 calories with 12g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 5 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 0.5 tsp red chili flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 0.25 cup grated parmesan optional
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti
Cook spaghetti in a large pot of generously salted boiling water until just al dente. Reserve one full cup of pasta water before draining as you will need it for the sauce.
Step 2: Infuse the Oil
Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and chili flakes and cook very gently for 2 to 3 minutes until garlic turns lightly golden and fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add half a cup of pasta water to the skillet and increase heat to medium. Let it simmer for one minute then add drained spaghetti and toss vigorously to create a glossy emulsified sauce.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and toss in fresh parsley. Plate immediately and add parmesan if desired along with an extra pinch of chili flakes for heat lovers.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- red chili flakes → fresh sliced red chili for a brighter heat or omit entirely for a mild version
- parsley → fresh basil or chives for a different herbal finish
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Burning the garlic slices which makes the entire dish taste bitter and unpleasant
- Not using enough pasta water to emulsify the sauce which results in oily spaghetti instead of a silky coating
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 450 calories, 12g protein, 61g carbs, 18g fat, 3g fiber.
Ready to cook?
Get the interactive recipe with adjustable servings, built-in timers, and ingredient checklist.
View full recipe →