Pasta with garlic and chili (Aglio, olio e pepperoncino)

Pasta with Garlic and Chili (Aglio, Olio e Pepperoncino)

Who doesn't love pasta? It is a true symbol of gastronomy, and the recipe for pasta with garlic and chili is one of the simplest yet most flavorful. This is a recipe you can prepare in about 20 minutes, perfect for quick lunches or simple yet satisfying dinners. Though simple, this recipe will transport you to a world of intense flavors and delicious textures.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Required ingredients:
- 200 g spaghetti
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Fresh or dried chili, to taste (adjustable according to preferences)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Short introduction:
"Aglio e Olio" is a traditional Italian recipe that has captured the hearts of many due to its simplicity. This recipe was created in times when ingredients were few, but flavors were rich. Pasta with garlic and chili is not only quick but also very versatile. You can customize it to your taste by adding ingredients such as shrimp, vegetables, or even a hint of lemon for a fresh flavor.

Preparing the pasta:
1. Start by boiling a large pot of water with a teaspoon of salt. The salt will help the pasta absorb flavors better during boiling. When the water starts to boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, being careful to cook it "al dente," meaning it should remain firm to the bite.

2. While the pasta is boiling, peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely. Fresh garlic is essential for this recipe as it will add the characteristic flavor. If you want a more intense note, you can use older garlic, which has a stronger flavor.

3. In a large skillet, add the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped garlic and chili. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter. Cook the garlic and chili until the garlic turns golden, about 1-2 minutes.

4. When the pasta is cooked, drain it but remember to keep a cup of the cooking water. Add the pasta to the skillet over the garlic and chili mixture, mixing well to combine the flavors. Now is the ideal time to add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Once the mixture is well combined, gradually add a few tablespoons of the reserved water, stirring continuously. This will help create a smooth sauce that will coat the pasta. Continue to cook on low heat until the water evaporates.

6. Finally, add dried oregano, mixing well. This will add a note of freshness and complement the intense flavors of the garlic and chili.

Serving:
To add a final touch, serve the pasta warm, sprinkled with grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley. This detail will not only enhance the presentation but will also add a note of freshness. You can serve it alongside a simple green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete dinner.

Practical tips:
- If you like spicy food, you can add chopped fresh chili to the garlic sauce. You can also drizzle the pasta with spicy olive oil for an extra kick.
- Another delicious variation is adding shrimp or chicken breast to the skillet, making this dish more filling.
- Instead of spaghetti, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as linguine or fettuccine.

Nutritional information:
A serving of pasta with garlic and chili contains approximately 400 calories, depending on the amount of olive oil and Parmesan used. This pasta is rich in carbohydrates, providing quick energy, as well as antioxidants from the garlic. Olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats, and chili contributes to boosting metabolism.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat pasta is a healthier option and offers a different texture and taste.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan? If you don't have Parmesan, you can try Pecorino cheese or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Sure! There are rice or quinoa pasta options that work wonderfully in this recipe.

This pasta with garlic and chili is not only a delicious choice but also a quick and accessible option for anyone who loves cooking. I encourage you to try it and adapt it to your taste. Enjoy!