Skip to Content
Recipes

The Simple Perfection of Pasta Aglio e Olio

Our Editor-in-Chief offers a recipe for Pasta Aglio e Olio on the podcast "Beyond The Burner" championing the simplicity of Italian cuisine.

Pasta Aglio e Olio by Andrew Cotto. Photo courtesy of Erika Katz.

Pasta Aglio e Olio by Andrew Cotto. Photo courtesy of Erika Katz.

I love pasta agio e olio. The simple perfection of three essential Italian ingredients speaks to the exceptionalism of la cucina italiana.

I was so happy to attest to this brilliance on my recent appearance on the Beyond The Burner podcast, discussing, among other things, the benefits of Italian ingredients and the wellness they foster.

The episode is here with the recipe below:

Pasta Aglio e Olio

Pasta Aglio e Olio

Recipe by Andrew Cotto
0.0 from 0 votes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup 1/4 “everyday” extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)

  • high quality EVOO (for anointing at the end)

  • 1 lb. 1 dry spaghetti or any long pasta

  • 5 cloves 5 garlic, peeled (germ removed from the center, if present) and sliced very thin

  • 1 teaspoon 1 red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons 2 minced flat-leaf parsely

  • grated Parmigiano or Pecorino cheese (to taste, optional)

  • Kosher salt

Directions

  • Bring a large pot of water to boil.
  • Add a palm-full of salt (about a 1/4 cup).
  • Add the pasta, stir until a boil returns.
  • Set the timer for four minutes short of package instructions for “al dente.”
  • Add the olive oil and garlic to a cold, large saute pan.
  • When the timer goes off, turn on the flame to medium-low and allow the garlic to warm in the olive oil (do not let it burn!) for two minutes.
  • Season with salt and red pepper flakes.
  • Transfer the pasta from the boiling water directly to the pan.
  • Add 1/2 cup of pasta water to the pan.
  • Toss thoroughly until the pasta absorbs the water and has a nice sheen.
  • Off the heat, anoint with the high-quality EVOO, add the parsley (and cheese, if using), toss and serve.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @appetitomagazine on Instagram and hashtag it with #italianfoodanddrink

Like this recipe?

Follow @Appetitomagazine on Pinterest

Follow us on Facebook!

Follow us on Facebook

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More Stories

This Week in Italian Food News: Garofalo, the New York Jets and De Nigris Make Headlines

Three Italian brands are finding fresh ways to connect with American consumers.

July 17, 2026

How to Make Pavlova with Pistachio Chantilly and Frutti di Bosco

When the sweetest berries of the season are at their peak, this is the dessert to make.

July 17, 2026

Inside Monaco’s La Vigie with Chef Simone Zanoni

The acclaimed Italian chef discusses the seasonal menu, Mediterranean lifestyle, and family traditions behind Monte-Carlo Beach's newest summer residence.

Dante Aperitivo’s Blueberry Lavender Negroni is the Unexpected Summer Sip You Need to Try

The New York favorite shares the recipe for one of its standout seasonal cocktails.

July 16, 2026

How to Make the Mancini Spritz

Whether you're hosting friends or unwinding after a long day, this Italian-inspired cocktail brings a touch of aperitivo culture to any occasion.

July 16, 2026

Introducing Babies to Italian Food: Family Recipes for First Meals

From semolino and zucchini puree to pasta and spezzatino, these Italian-inspired first foods make mealtime easy for babies and the whole family.