When life gets busy, sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones. Quick and Easy Pasta with Olive Oil—also known as Pasta Aglio e Olio in Italy—is a perfect example of how just a few quality ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. This minimalist pasta recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, last-minute dinners, or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Pasta with Olive Oil?
Pasta tossed with olive oil is a cornerstone of Italian home cooking. It showcases the beauty of simplicity—just pasta, good olive oil, garlic, and a few seasonings combine to make a flavorful dish. This recipe highlights the essence of Italian cuisine, where fresh ingredients and basic techniques come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Not only is this dish fast and easy to prepare, but it’s also light, vegetarian-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples you probably already have.
Ingredients for Quick and Easy Pasta with Olive Oil
The magic of this recipe lies in the quality of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta – 8 ounces of spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite long pasta
- Extra virgin olive oil – ¼ cup (the star of the dish, so choose a good quality one)
- Garlic – 3-4 cloves, thinly sliced or minced
- Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a gentle heat)
- Salt – for pasta water and seasoning
- Fresh parsley – a handful, chopped (for freshness and color)
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese – for serving (optional)
- Lemon zest – optional, for a fresh zing
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pasta with Olive Oil
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes depending on the type. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
2. Prepare the Garlic-Infused Olive Oil
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced or minced garlic and gently sauté until fragrant and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
3. Add Red Pepper Flakes
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds to infuse the oil.
4. Combine Pasta and Oil
Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat evenly. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky sauce.
5. Season and Garnish
Season with salt to taste. Stir in chopped fresh parsley and, if using, a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. Toss everything together.
6. Serve with Cheese
Serve immediately with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on the side, so everyone can add as much as they like.
Tips for the Perfect Olive Oil Pasta
- Use quality olive oil: Since olive oil is the main flavor, choose a good extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Don’t burn the garlic: Keep the heat moderate to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce and pasta together.
- Customize: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Add protein: For a more filling meal, toss in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy and simple: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to what you have on hand.
- Light and fresh: Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a side dish.
- Classic and authentic: Brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen.
- Budget-friendly: Uses everyday pantry staples with no need for fancy ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Quick and Easy Pasta with Olive Oil is proof that sometimes less truly is more. This humble dish combines a handful of ingredients into a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture. It’s ideal for busy days, last-minute guests, or whenever you crave something comforting but uncomplicated.
So next time you want a fast, flavorful dinner, skip the heavy sauces and enjoy the elegance of pasta simply tossed in garlic-infused olive oil. It’s a dish that never goes out of style and always leaves you feeling satisfied.