Paraben Free One-Pot Aglio e Olio
Few pasta dishes are as satisfying as this Roman classic — golden garlic, silky olive oil, a kick of red pepper, and a tangle of perfectly cooked spaghetti that somehow feels both humble and luxurious. The beauty here is in the short ingredient list: extra-virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, parsley, and a touch of Parmesan if you like. Every component is straightforward and naturally free from the synthetic preservatives and additives that can sneak into processed sauces and packaged convenience foods. Cooking everything in one pan also means you control exactly what goes into the dish, which matters when you're being mindful about what you put on your plate. The technique of tossing the pasta with starchy cooking water and a second pour of olive oil is what creates that glossy, restaurant-quality sauce that clings to every strand. Fresh parsley brightens the whole thing at the end, adding color and a clean herbal note that no dried or preserved substitute can match. It's the kind of weeknight dinner that proves simple, whole ingredients are almost always the best choice.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 tbsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add 1 tbsp kosher salt and the spaghetti and cook, stirring occasionally, until 2 minutes shy of al dente — tender but with a firm, chalky center — according to the package directions. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
- 2
While the pasta cooks, heat 1/4 cup of the olive oil in a large skillet or wide sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic slices in a single layer and cook, stirring frequently, until pale golden at the edges and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes. Watch closely — the slices can go from golden to bitter quickly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!