Greetings, food enthusiasts! Today, we present to you a classic, flavorful, and incredibly simple Italian pasta dish – Penne Aglio e Olio. This dish originated in the southern regions of Italy and has been cherished for generations.

With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will please both your taste buds and your family and friends. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of Penne Aglio e Olio!.

Ingredients:

For this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:.

350 grams of penne pasta
6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Salt, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Now that we have gathered all the ingredients, let us proceed with the step-by-step instructions:.

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and season it generously with salt. Place it over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente.

Al dente means the pasta should be cooked just enough to be firm when bitten, giving it a slightly chewy texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté them gently until the garlic turns golden and releases its aromatic fragrance.

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Garlic

Once the pasta is al dente, use a slotted spoon or pasta tongs to transfer it directly from the pot to the skillet, letting some of the pasta water cling to the noodles.

The starchy pasta water will enhance the sauce’s consistency and help it stick to the pasta better.

Step 4: Toss and Season

Toss the pasta in the garlicky olive oil until it is well coated. Add salt to taste and toss it a few more times to ensure even seasoning. You can adjust the salt and red pepper flakes according to your personal preference.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and toss it once more to distribute it evenly. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant note to the dish. You can also grate some Parmesan cheese over the pasta if desired.

Voilà! Your Penne Aglio e Olio is now ready to be served. Transfer it to individual plates or a large serving bowl, and enjoy this simple yet elegant Italian dish.

Variations:

Penne Aglio e Olio is a versatile dish that welcomes creative adaptations. Here are a few ideas to explore:.

Add sautéed vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make it a more substantial vegetarian dish.
Toss in some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken to incorporate protein into the meal.
Experiment with different types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, for a variation in texture.
For an extra depth of flavor, you can toss in a handful of pitted olives or anchovies.

Now that you know the secret recipe of Penne Aglio e Olio and its versatile variations, it’s time to unleash your culinary skills and enjoy this delightful pasta dish with your loved ones. Buon appetito!.