Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Ingredients

• 1 lb. spaghetti
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. When the spaghetti is done cooking, drain and add to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Toss to combine and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, and toss to combine. Serve immediately.

Interesting Facts

• This dish originated in the southern Italian region of Campania.
• The name of the dish comes from the Italian words aglio (garlic) and olio (oil).
• It is traditionally a vegetarian dish, though some variations include anchovies or pancetta.