Smart Struggle Meals
A classic Italian pasta dish, Aglio e Olio is the ultimate struggle meal, transforming simple pantry staples into a flavorful and satisfying dinner with just garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti.
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin
- pinch red pepper flakes optional
- salt taste salt
- black pepper taste black pepper freshly ground
- 1/2 cup pasta water reserved
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions in well-salted boiling water. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook slowly until garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes. Do not burn the garlic.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Add about 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water.
- Toss vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce emulsifies and coats the pasta. The starch from the pasta water helps create a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for a kick, fresh parsley if available, or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. This recipe is a fantastic base for added vegetables or protein if you have them on hand.