Ingredients
Pasta and Water
- 16 oz. bucatini (or spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup olive oil + more for tossing the pasta
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
Seasoning and Garnish
- Kosher salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook the bucatini or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta, then toss it with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to prevent sticking and add initial flavor.
- Prepare garlic oil: In a large sauté pan, heat 1/2 cup olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant and just turning a very pale golden color. Be careful not to let it burn or darken more.
- Add parsley and capers: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and capers (if using) along with half of the reserved pasta water. Cook together for 1 minute to combine flavors.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly in the garlic oil mixture. Cook for about 1 minute until heated through, adding the remaining pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Season and garnish: Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy your flavorful olive oil pasta.
Notes
- If you prefer no heat, omit the crushed red pepper flakes or serve them on the side so guests can add their preferred amount.
- Always salt your pasta water well to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Reserve pasta water to help emulsify and smooth out the sauce; it creates a glossy, well-coated finish on your noodles.
- Capers add a salty, briny element but are optional.
- Use fresh garlic and avoid burning it to maintain a sweet, mild garlic flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
