This simple garlic olive oil pasta is one of those dependable meals that requires only a few basic ingredients. It’s straightforward, flavorful, and comes together quickly when everyone’s hungry and the day has been full. Some nights call for something simple. Just a pot of salted water, a skillet, and a few basic ingredients that have always worked. This is one of our go-to dinners especially for the kids. It pairs easily with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables, but it’s just as satisfying on its own with bread and a salad. It’s affordable, comforting, and built from pantry staples. It never disappoints!
What you need to make this simple garlic olive oil pasta + substitutions:
Pasta – We like angel hair, but spaghetti, linguine or fettuccine work just as well.
Extra virgin olive oil – Use good quality; this is the sauce. Avocado oil works in a pinch but olive oil gives the flavor.
Fresh garlic – Thinly sliced or minced; garlic powder is not a substitute here.
Pasta water– The starchy cooking liquid that helps bind the olive oil and garlic into a light, silky sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
Red pepper flakes – Optional, but adds a subtle heat that wakes everything up.
Sea salt – For the pasta water and to finish. We use Redmond sea salt, it’s our favorite and we use it in everything! You can use the code daddioskitchen for 15% off. We get the big bag!
Fresh parsley – Adds brightness; dried can work if that’s what you have.
Freshly grated Parmesan – Optional but recommended; Pecorino Romano is excellent too.
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Alright, let’s get to making the recipe! Enjoy!
Simple Garlic Olive Oil Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz box angel hair pasta
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup reserve pasta water use to sparingly to get sauce consistency
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½-1 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook gently until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2–3 minutes. Do not let it brown.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Remove from heat. Stir in parsley and Parmesan. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Enjoy
