Spaghetti Aglio e Olio (Easy Garlic Olive Oil Pasta)

Full ingredients and substitutions are in the recipe box below.

• Spaghetti: classic choice for a silky sauce and the traditional feel of spaghetti with garlic and oil. Substitute linguine, bucatini, or whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
• Extra virgin olive oil: the heart of the dish, adding richness and flavor while staying naturally low in saturated fats. The better the oil, the better the pasta tastes.
• Garlic: finely chopped or grated for maximum aroma and sweetness. Substitute garlic paste, or use roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
• Fresh red chili: adds gentle heat that wakes everything up. Substitute red pepper flakes, or skip for a milder, family-friendly garlic and oil pasta version.
• Fresh parsley: brings freshness and balance to this weeknight pasta recipe.
• Salt: seasons both pasta and sauce so flavors shine. Sea salt or kosher salt work best.
• Reserved pasta water: creates a silky, glossy finish without cream, keeping this a budget-friendly pasta dinner. Authentic aglio e olio uses no cream or parmesan.