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Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

An easy and delicious pasta dish. This Spaghetti Aglio e Olio recipe puts a spin on a classic Italian dish and is topped with tasty, toasted breadcrumbs. So good!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 5 Servings
Author: Maggie @ Cupcakes and Sarcasm

Ingredients

  • 1 Lb Spaghetti
  • 2/3 Cup Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1-2 Tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1/2 Cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (+ more for topping)
  • 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese + more for topping
  • 1 Whole Head of Garlic, cloves peeled and thinly sliced
  • Zest of 1 Lemon
  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • 1 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 1/2 Cup Plain Panko Breadcrumbs

Instructions

  • Begin by toasting the breadcrumbs first. In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and stir constantly until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl. Set aside.
  • Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions (adding salt to the water before adding the pasta). Cook until al dente.
  • When the spaghetti has about 5 more minutes to cook, begin cooking the “sauce” portion. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, Add the garlic slices, lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until the garlic is lightly golden (do not burn), about 2-3 minutes. Add salt and pepper to the oil, about 1/2 teaspoon each.
  • Using tongs, pull the cooked spaghetti out of it’s cooking water and into the skillet with olive oil. Toss the pasta in the oil. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice (I used half of a lemon or about 2 tablespoons) and toss.
  • Turn the heat off and add the parmesan cheese and the fresh parsley and toss the pasta until it’s coated. Taste for seasoning and add more salt, pepper or lemon juice if needed. If pasta needs more liquid, add a little of the pasta water if needed.
  • Divide the pasta among the bowls and top with some of the toasted breadcrumbs. Also top with more fresh parsley and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!