Spaghetti with garlic, oil and chili pepper is a beloved first course in Italy and abroad, try this quick and iconic recipe easily within minutes.

PROCESS:

• Start by boiling salted water and cooking the spaghetti until it’s al dente. In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over low heat, then add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking gently to avoid burning.

• Once the pasta is ready, transfer it directly to the pan and add a bit of reserved pasta water to help the sauce come together.

• Season everything with salt, black pepper, and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s creamy and well combined. Finally, remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra chili flakes, and serve it hot. Enjoy!

Here’s what you are going to need to make it:

Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and creaminess. Dividing it means some will be melted into the sauce, while the rest can be added at the end for a final touch of flavor.

Olive oil: Olive oil adds a rich flavor to dishes and helps in not burning the butter.

Garlic: Adds aromatic and bold flavor.

Black Pepper: This adds a nice, spicy kick. Using coarsely ground pepper gives the dish a bit of texture and bold flavor.

Chili Flakes: Adds a kick of spice.

Salt: Enhances taste.

Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess to the sauce.

Pasta: I used spaghetti, but you can also use linguine or angel hair.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby touch at the end.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound (450 grams) uncooked spaghetti

• 1½ cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Butter

• 6-12 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste

• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 1½ cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

• First put some water in a pot and bring it to a boil, salt, and save at least 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Add Butter and Oil

• Now pour the oil and butter into a large pan.

Step 3: Add garlic and chili flakes

• Heat it over low heat and add the garlic and chili pepper. Sauté the sauce over very low heat, chili pepper and garlic should not burn but just fry for a couple of minutes’

Step 4: Add cooked pasta

• And for an even browning without the risk of burning them, you can tilt the pan so that the oil and seasoning are collected in one place and allow an even browning. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, you can transfer it directly to the pan and add a ladle of cooking water.

• And for an even browning without the risk of burning them, you can tilt the pan so that the oil and seasoning are collected in one place and allow an even browning. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, you can transfer it directly to the pan and add a ladle of cooking water.

Step 5: Add Seasonings

• Add salt and black pepper to taste.

• Next add in the parmesan cheese and mix everything together.

Step 6: Final touches and serve!

• Once everything is mixed cut off the heat and garnish with fresh parsley and chili flakes.

• Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and notes:

• Make sure your boiling water is well-salted; it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself, and it makes a big difference in flavor.

• Keep the heat low when cooking the garlic to prevent it from burning. Burnt garlic can make your dish taste bitter.

• Always save some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps create a creamy sauce and can help the sauce stick to the pasta.

• Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. You can also add more chili flakes when serving for an extra kick.

• Fresh parsley not only adds flavor but also brightens up the dish. You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or chives for a different twist.

• If you want a stronger flavor, consider mixing in some Pecorino Romano with the Parmesan.

• This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to help loosen the sauce.

• This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.