Gordon Ramsay Aglio Olio Recipe
Make restaurant-style pasta with this Gordon Ramsay aglio olio recipe featuring garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and parmesan.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater (optional)
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese for serving optional
- Lemon zest for garnish optional
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Drain the pasta but do not rinse it.
Step 2: Slice the Garlic
- Thinly slice the garlic cloves evenly. This helps them cook at the same speed and prevents burning.
Step 3: Heat the Olive Oil
- Place a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the olive oil and sliced garlic. Cook gently for several minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
- Do not rush this step. Burned garlic can turn bitter very quickly.
Step 4: Add Chili Flakes
- Stir in the red chili flakes and black pepper.
- Cook for about 30 seconds to release the flavor into the oil.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet.
- Pour in reserved pasta water little by little while tossing continuously. The pasta water helps create a silky sauce that coats every strand.
Step 6: Finish with Parsley
- Add chopped parsley and toss everything together until glossy and evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
- Serve hot with freshly grated parmesan cheese and optional lemon zest.