Description
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Garlic and Parmesan (plant-based) is a simple, quick, and flavorful Italian pasta dish featuring tender spaghetti tossed in garlic-infused extra virgin olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and creamy plant-based Parmesan. This comforting and light recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights and easily customizable to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 200g high-quality durum wheat spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup plant-based Parmesan, grated
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt, to season pasta water
Optional Variations
- Smoked turkey bacon, crispy pieces
- Cherry tomatoes, fresh or roasted
- Fresh chili peppers, thinly sliced
- Smoked turkey slices
- Fresh spinach or kale leaves
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook until just al dente according to the package instructions, then reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Garlic-Infused Oil: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a wide skillet. Add the sliced garlic and gently sauté until golden and fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Add Heat and Herbs: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and chopped parsley, allowing the flavors to meld together for a minute.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water sparingly to loosen the mixture if needed.
- Finish with Plant-Based Parmesan and Lemon Zest: Sprinkle grated plant-based Parmesan and a bit of fresh lemon zest over the pasta. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic instead of powder for the most vibrant and authentic flavor.
- Cook garlic slowly over medium heat to avoid bitterness and develop depth.
- Reserve pasta cooking water to adjust sauce texture so it clings nicely to the noodles.
- Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil with fruity and slightly peppery notes to elevate the dish.
- Combine pasta and sauce while both are hot to maximize flavor absorption.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Spaghetti, Aglio e Olio, Garlic, Plant-Based Parmesan, Italian Pasta, Quick Dinner, Easy Recipe, Vegan Parmesan
