Garlic Olive Oil Spaghetti Simple and Delicious Dish
Looking for a simple, tasty dinner? Garlic Olive Oil Spaghetti is your answer! This quick dish uses just a few fresh ingredients to create a flavor-packed meal. You’ll find yourself craving the bold taste of garlic and the smooth richness of olive oil. In this post, I’ll guide you through easy steps to make this delicious pasta dish. Get ready to impress with little effort!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This garlic olive oil spaghetti can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal.
- Flavorful Simplicity: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes creates a deliciously aromatic dish that highlights the quality of the ingredients.
- Customizable: This recipe is versatile; you can easily adjust the spice level or add other ingredients like vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
- Fresh and Bright: The addition of lemon zest and parsley adds a refreshing touch that elevates the dish, making it vibrant and appealing.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 200g spaghetti
– 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 60ml extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garlic olive oil spaghetti uses simple, fresh ingredients. You only need a few items to make this dish shine. The spaghetti is the base, and it cooks up nicely in salted water. Garlic is the star, bringing bold flavor. The extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps everything blend.
Red pepper flakes give it a kick, so you can adjust that to your taste. Fresh parsley adds a bright touch, making the dish feel lively. Lemon zest brings a bit of brightness, enhancing all the flavors. Don’t forget salt, which is key for bringing out the taste of each ingredient. If you like cheese, freshly grated Parmesan is a great finishing touch.
This dish is not just easy to make; it’s also full of flavor. You can make it in about 20 minutes, which is perfect for a quick meal. Enjoy each bite of this simple yet delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Spaghetti
1. Fill a big pot with water. Add a lot of salt.
2. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
3. Add the spaghetti to the pot.
4. Cook the spaghetti until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Before draining, save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
6. Drain the spaghetti well and set it aside.
Preparing Olive Oil Mixture
1. Pour extra virgin olive oil into a large skillet.
2. Heat the oil over medium heat.
3. When the oil is warm, add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes.
4. Stir the garlic often for 2-3 minutes.
5. Make sure the garlic turns golden but does not burn.
Combining Ingredients
1. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet.
2. Toss the spaghetti well in the garlic oil.
3. If it seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.
4. Mix in the chopped parsley and lemon zest.
Serving the Dish
1. Serve the spaghetti hot right from the skillet.
2. For added flavor, sprinkle fresh Parmesan cheese on top.
3. To make it pretty, add more parsley and lemon zest as garnish.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Salting the water is key. It helps flavor the spaghetti. Use a lot of salt; it should taste like the sea.
– Monitor the garlic closely while cooking. You want it golden, not brown. Brown garlic can taste bitter.
– Adjust the heat when sautéing. Start with medium heat. If the garlic cooks too fast, lower the heat.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair your spaghetti with a simple salad. A fresh green salad works well. You can also enjoy garlic bread on the side.
– For wine, a light white wine pairs nicely. Choose something like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Chef’s Secrets
– Always use high-quality olive oil. The better the oil, the better the flavor of the dish.
– Customize spice levels to your liking. Add more red pepper flakes for heat. You can even skip them if you prefer mild.
Pro Tips
- Use Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of your dish hinges on the quality of the extra virgin olive oil. Opt for a fresh, high-quality brand for the best results.
- Adjust Garlic to Taste: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more cloves. Conversely, reduce the amount if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water. It’s starchy and can help create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the spaghetti.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation with additional garnishes like chili flakes, a sprinkle of lemon juice, or even toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily change up this dish to fit your needs. Here are some ideas:
– Alternative pastas: Try gluten-free or whole wheat pasta. They work well and taste great.
– Vegan cheese options: If you avoid dairy, use vegan cheese. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
– Adding protein: Boost your meal by adding shrimp or chicken. Sauté them before the garlic for added flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to make your garlic olive oil spaghetti even better? Here are a few tips:
– Incorporating vegetables: Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition. Sauté them along with the garlic for extra taste.
– Using different herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can change the flavor. Sprinkle them in right before serving for a fresh touch.
These variations can transform a simple dish into something special, matching your taste perfectly. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the spaghetti cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents drying. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, eat it within two days.
When storing pasta, try to keep it separate from sauces. This helps maintain the spaghetti’s texture. If the pasta absorbs too much sauce, it can become mushy.
Reheating Tips
For reheating, there are a few easy methods. You can use the microwave, stovetop, or oven. If using a microwave, place the spaghetti in a bowl. Add a splash of water and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.
If you prefer the stovetop, warm a skillet on low heat. Add a bit of olive oil or butter to keep it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. The oven is great, too. Cover the dish with foil and heat at 350°F until warm.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze spaghetti with olive oil, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months.
To thaw, move the spaghetti from the freezer to the fridge a day before you want to eat it. For quick thawing, place it in a bowl of warm water. Reheat using one of the methods above. Add a splash of olive oil if it seems dry. Enjoy your quick meal!
FAQs
What is the best type of olive oil for this recipe?
The best olive oil for garlic olive oil spaghetti is extra virgin. It has the best flavor and quality. Extra virgin olive oil adds depth to your dish. Look for a bottle labeled “cold-pressed” for freshness. A good quality oil makes a big difference in taste.
Can I make garlic olive oil spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can make garlic olive oil spaghetti ahead of time. Cook the pasta and prepare the garlic oil. Store them separately in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, combine them in a skillet. Heat gently until warm. This method keeps the pasta fresh.
How can I adjust the recipe for more servings?
To adjust the recipe for more servings, simply double or triple the ingredients. Use 100g of spaghetti per person as a guide. Keep the same ratio for garlic and olive oil. If you need to make it for six people, use 600g of spaghetti.
What can I serve with garlic olive oil spaghetti?
Garlic olive oil spaghetti pairs well with a green salad. You might also serve it with garlic bread or grilled vegetables. For protein, consider shrimp or chicken. These options add balance to your meal and enhance the flavors.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
To prevent garlic from burning, cook it over low to medium heat. Stir it often to keep it from sticking. Remove the skillet from heat as soon as it turns golden. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and ruins the dish. Keep an eye on it while cooking.
In this post, we explored how to make garlic olive oil spaghetti. We covered key ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and parsley. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking, mixing, and serving. We also discussed tips for perfecting your dish and variations to suit your taste. Cooking this dish is simple and fun. Experiment with flavors to make it your own. Enjoy each bite, and remember to share this tasty recipe with friend
Garlic Olive Oil Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 zest lemon
- to taste salt
- for serving freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.
- In a large skillet, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and set the heat to medium. Allow the oil to warm up gently.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is golden and aromatic.
- Introduce the drained spaghetti into the skillet, tossing it well in the garlic-infused olive oil. If the pasta appears dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you achieve desired creaminess.
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped parsley and lemon zest. Taste and season with salt as needed.
- Serve immediately while hot, adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
![- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 bell peppers (red and green) - 1 medium yellow onion - Olive oil and spices The main ingredients are simple yet flavorful. I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook evenly. Bell peppers add color and sweetness, while the onion provides a tasty base. Olive oil helps the spices stick and adds richness. - Chili powder - Ground cumin - Garlic powder - Smoked paprika - Onion powder The seasoning blend makes this dish special. Chili powder gives a nice kick. Ground cumin adds warmth, while garlic and onion powders boost the flavor. Smoked paprika brings depth with its smoky taste. - Flour tortillas - Fresh cilantro - Lime wedges for serving To enjoy the fajitas, I use small flour tortillas that hold the filling well. Fresh cilantro adds a bright touch, and lime wedges bring a zesty finish. These extras make the meal even better. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Set the oven to 425°F (220°C). - Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. - In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and spices. - Coat the chicken with the marinade well. - Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the chicken. - Spread the mixture evenly across the sheet pan. - Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. This recipe makes it easy to prepare a tasty meal. You can enjoy it with warm tortillas. For the full recipe, check out the details provided earlier. To make the best sheet pan chicken fajitas, marinate the chicken longer if you can. Letting it soak in flavors for more time makes a big difference. A meat thermometer is also very handy. It helps you check if your chicken is fully cooked. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for safety. A fajita bar is a fun way to serve these. Lay out all the toppings for everyone to enjoy. Think about adding sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. To warm the tortillas, heat them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. You can also wrap them in foil and place them in the oven for the last five minutes of cooking. Make your presentation pop with colorful toppings. Fresh avocado, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese can make your dish look great. Don't forget to garnish with lime wedges and cilantro. These small touches bring out the flavors and make the dish more inviting. Enjoy the full recipe for more details on how to create this tasty meal! {{image_4}} You can switch the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice flavor. Tofu is great for a plant-based option. If you want to use chicken, try different cuts like thighs. Thighs are juicy and full of flavor. If you want a meatless meal, replace chicken with mixed vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, and corn work well. Add beans for protein. Black beans or pinto beans add creaminess and taste. This keeps your meal hearty and filling. Want to spice things up? Add jalapeños for heat. They bring a nice kick that many love. You can also mix in different herbs and spices. Try oregano, cilantro, or smoked paprika for variety. Each adds unique flavors to your dish. Explore these options to find your favorite twist on this recipe! For the full recipe, check the link. After you enjoy your sheet pan chicken fajitas, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool before sealing to avoid steam buildup. To freeze the fajita mix, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. For thawing, move it to the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, use the microwave's defrost setting. To reheat without drying out your fajitas, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and warm the fajitas in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes. You can also use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to create steam. This keeps everything juicy. Get creative with leftovers! Use them in tacos, wraps, or salads for a quick meal. You can even mix them into scrambled eggs for a tasty breakfast. For the full recipe, check it out above. Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just follow these guidelines: - Thawing: Always thaw the chicken before marinating. You can do this overnight in the fridge or use the microwave's defrost setting. - Cooking Time: If you skip thawing and bake from frozen, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes. - Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). There are many tasty sides to pair with your fajitas. Here are some great options: - Rice: Cilantro lime rice adds a fresh touch. - Beans: Black beans or refried beans are both hearty and flavorful. - Salad: A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette complements the fajitas well. - Chips and Salsa: Serve with tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a crunchy side. Want extra heat? Here are some tips to spice up your fajitas: - Add Jalapeños: Sliced fresh jalapeños can give a nice kick. - Use Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the fajitas before serving. - Increase Spice Mix: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for more heat. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. In this blog post, we covered a tasty sheet pan chicken fajitas recipe. You learned about the key ingredients and how to prepare them. I shared tips to make your fajitas perfect, including variations for different diets. Storing leftovers and reheating them properly helps reduce waste. Remember, these fajitas are easy to customize and fun to serve. Enjoy making them with family or friends, and let your creativity shine. Your next meal can be delicious and simple!](https://joymealplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/bce38261-6b1a-4600-b2d8-c9c563997242-768x768.webp)
![- 2 cups cooked brown rice - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) - 1 ripe avocado, diced - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning - Salt and black pepper to taste - Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, sliced jalapeños For these Loaded Chicken Burrito Bowls, I focus on simple, fresh ingredients. The brown rice serves as a wholesome base. It adds fiber and nutrients. I choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for lean protein. It cooks up juicy and tender. Black beans bring extra protein and a creamy texture. Rinsing them helps remove excess sodium, making them healthier. Corn adds sweetness and a pop of color. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned, based on your preference. Avocado is a delightful addition. It brings creaminess and healthy fats. The shredded cheddar cheese adds richness and flavor. For seasoning, I use taco seasoning. It gives a bold taste without extra effort. I also add salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Toppings are where you can get creative. I suggest sour cream for creaminess. Salsa adds zest, and sliced jalapeños bring heat. Feel free to mix and match as you like. You can find the Full Recipe for all these delicious ingredients and how to prepare them. - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. - Add diced chicken and season with taco seasoning. First, I heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. I want the oil to shimmer before adding the chicken. Once it’s hot, I toss in the diced chicken breast. I sprinkle it with taco seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. I cook this for about 6 to 8 minutes. I stir often to ensure even cooking. The chicken should turn a lovely golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. - Prepare brown rice according to package instructions. - Fluff rice once cooked. While the chicken cooks, I prepare brown rice. I follow the package instructions closely. This step is key for fluffy rice. Once it’s cooked, I use a fork to fluff the rice. Fluffy rice makes a great base for my burrito bowls. - Mix black beans, corn, and tomatoes in a bowl. - Combine with cooked chicken and layer on rice. Next, I grab a large mixing bowl. I combine the rinsed black beans, corn, and halved cherry tomatoes. I gently toss them together until they mix well. Once the chicken is done, I add it to the bowl. I stir everything together to let the flavors blend. Now it's time to build the burrito bowls! I divide the fluffy brown rice into four serving bowls. I spoon the chicken mixture on top of the rice in each bowl. Next, I add diced avocado, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. For a zesty finish, I serve lime wedges on the side. You can also add sour cream or salsa if you want. For the full recipe, check the complete instructions and ingredient list. Enjoy making your loaded chicken burrito bowls! How to ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly To cook chicken safely, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Cook chicken pieces until they are golden brown and no longer pink inside. This ensures it is juicy and safe to eat. Best practices for fluffy rice For fluffy rice, rinse it well before cooking. This removes extra starch that makes it sticky. Cook it with the right water ratio, usually 2 cups of water for every cup of rice. After cooking, fluff it gently with a fork. This keeps the grains separate and light. Colorful arrangement ideas for the toppings To make your burrito bowls pop, layer the toppings by color. Place bright tomatoes, vibrant corn, and green avocado on top. This adds visual interest. You can also create small sections on the bowl for each topping. This way, each bite looks and tastes amazing. Using garnishes to enhance visual appeal Fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate your dish. Sprinkle them on top for a burst of color. Lime wedges can add a zesty touch. Place them artfully around the bowl for that extra flair. Suggestions for extra spices or ingredients to add To boost the flavor, try adding cumin or smoked paprika. These spices add warmth and depth. You can also mix in jalapeños for heat or lime juice for brightness. Freshly chopped garlic can also add a punch of flavor. Alternative cooking methods for chicken If you want to switch it up, grill or bake the chicken instead of pan-frying. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor. Baking can keep it tender and juicy. You can marinate the chicken beforehand to infuse even more flavor. For the Full Recipe, check the earlier section for all the details! {{image_4}} You can easily make Loaded Chicken Burrito Bowls vegetarian or vegan. To do this, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein. Options include lentils, tempeh, or tofu. For a vegan cheese option, try cashew cheese or nutritional yeast. For gluten-free options, make sure to check your taco seasoning. Some brands add gluten. You can also swap brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. If you like heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce to your bowl. This gives a spicy kick that enhances the flavors. You can also try different beans like pinto or kidney beans. Each type adds a unique taste and texture to your dish. Feel free to adjust your ingredients based on what is in season or what you like best. You can swap corn for bell peppers or zucchini for a fresh twist. For cheese, consider using feta or goat cheese for a different flavor. If you want a creamy topping, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. These swaps keep your bowls exciting! For the full recipe, check out the complete details in the recipe section. To keep your loaded chicken burrito bowls fresh, store them in airtight containers. This helps preserve flavor and texture. Place all components in separate containers if possible. This way, the rice, chicken, and toppings stay fresh longer. Generally, leftovers last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If the chicken looks or smells off, it's best to toss it. When reheating, use the microwave for quick warmth. Place the food in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals until warm. This method keeps the rice moist and prevents it from drying out. For the best texture, consider reheating in a skillet. Add a splash of water, cover, and cook on low heat until everything is warmed through. This method helps maintain flavor and texture. To freeze components, let them cool completely first. Portion the rice, chicken, and toppings into freezer-safe containers. Label them with the date. This makes it easy to track freshness. You can freeze cooked chicken and rice for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat them as mentioned above to enjoy your delicious meal again. You can add many tasty toppings to your burrito bowls. Here are some great ideas: - Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. - Salsa: Choose your favorite type, from mild to spicy. - Sliced jalapeños: For some heat and crunch. - Chopped green onions: Adds freshness and color. - Lettuce: A nice crunch and extra nutrients. - Black olives: For a salty, savory touch. - Cheese: Try a different cheese like queso fresco or pepper jack. Mix and match these options to find your favorite combination. Each topping can change the flavor and texture of the dish. Yes, you can prepare Loaded Chicken Burrito Bowls ahead of time. Here are some tips for meal prep: - Cook the chicken and rice: You can cook and store these in separate containers in the fridge. - Prep toppings: Chop your vegetables and store them in airtight containers. - Assemble before serving: When ready to eat, layer the rice, chicken, and toppings in a bowl. This keeps everything fresh. When stored properly, the ingredients can last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. You can easily customize your burrito bowls to fit your needs. Here are some tips: - Dietary needs: If you're vegetarian, use beans instead of chicken. For vegan, skip cheese and sour cream. - Flavor preferences: Add different spices or sauces to change the flavor. - Vegetable swaps: Use seasonal vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini. - Grain choices: Try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even lettuce wraps instead of brown rice. Get creative and make the dish your own! For the complete ingredients and instructions for Loaded Chicken Burrito Bowls, check out the [Full Recipe]. This post shared how to make tasty Loaded Chicken Burrito Bowls. You learned about main and optional ingredients. I explained step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and fun variations. You can customize the bowls to your liking and store leftovers easily. Making these burrito bowls is fun and flexible. Enjoy your meal and get creative with flavors. The possibilities are endless, so dive in and make it your own!](https://joymealplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/a2d38b5a-a8a2-4e80-9f96-ef24cf5264b7-768x768.webp)