Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana
When it comes to Italian cuisine, there is no doubt that pasta is the king of it all. And one of the most popular pasta dishes in Italy, and around the world, is Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana. This dish is simple yet flavorful, and it can be prepared in just a few minutes. In this article, we will take a closer look at this dish, its history, ingredients, and how to prepare it.
What is Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana?
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana is a classic Italian pasta dish that originates from Naples. The name of the dish translates to “spaghetti with garlic and oil in the Neapolitan style”. As the name suggests, the dish is made with spaghetti, garlic, and olive oil. Other ingredients that are often added to the dish include red pepper flakes, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
The dish is simple to make, yet it is packed with flavor. The garlic and olive oil create a delicious base for the dish, while the red pepper flakes add a hint of spiciness. The parsley and Parmesan cheese add a touch of freshness and saltiness to the dish, respectively.
The History of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana is a dish that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Naples, which is known for its delicious and simple cuisine. The dish was traditionally eaten by fishermen who would cook it on their boats using the ingredients they had on hand.
Over time, the dish became popular throughout Italy and eventually made its way to the rest of the world. Today, it is a staple on the menu of Italian restaurants around the globe.
Ingredients for Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana
The ingredients for Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana are simple and easy to find. Here is a list of what you will need:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup of chopped parsley (optional)
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt, to taste
How to Make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana
Now that you know the history and ingredients of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana, it is time to learn how to make it. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- If using, add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- When the spaghetti is ready, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil and toss to coat. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.
- If using, add the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Conclusion
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio Alla Napoletana is a delicious and simple Italian pasta dish that can be made in just a few minutes. It is perfect for those times when you want a quick and easy meal that is packed with flavor. Give it a try and let us know what you think!