My kids always demand for western food – pasta, sandwiches, burgers and so on. We cannot take them to restaurants and give them these delicacies everyday. But how about cooking them at home? Restaurant’s taste and home-cooked goodness – the best of both combined in my recipe of Aglio Olio Spaghetti. It is very easy to make and can be made in 20 minutes.
What is Aglio Olio Spaghetti?
Aglio Olio Spaghetti is an Italian pasta recipe that originated from Napoli. It is spaghetti tossed in garlic and olive oil. Several variations can be easily created by adding veggies, seafood, grated cheese and so on.
Step-by-step instructions
1. Boil and drain required quantity of Spaghetti.
I useWholemeal Spaghetti, which provides more fibre than refined pasta. It has lesser calories too.
2. Wash, dry and cut veggies of your choice.
I use carrots, and green and red peppers. You can consider adding broccoli florets, cabbage, cherry tomatoes and so on. Adding seafood or chunks of chicken can be another option too.
3. Chop a few cloves of garlic very finely.
4. Add olive oil in a pan.
I don't add a lot of olive oil because it tends to make spaghetti oilier after cooking. Lesser the better! Olive oil comes in different ranges. Ensure you are using the one which is suitable for cooking.
5. Add chopped garlic.
I also add some herbs – Italian, basil leaves, mixed etc. Red chilli flakes enhance the taste as well.
6. Fry and nicely roast garlics and herbs.
Whoa! The aroma would make kids hungry already.
7. Now time to add veggies.
Stir fry them for a while. Ensure they are not overcooked. The crunch of the veggies should remain even after stir frying.
8. Lastly, add spaghetti.
Toss, toss, toss and mix the spaghetti well with veggies and herbs.
9. Garnish with a few parsley leaves.
10. Serve with cheesy garlic bread and soup.
Kids are happy and Mom is happy too! Dad would also love the dish! You have just saved a few $$$!! Also, Aglio Olio provides nutrition and it tastes just like a restaurant-made spaghetti.
Wholemeal Spaghetti is a source of fibre and carbohydrates. Kids need carbs to maintain their energy levels high and fibre is good for their little tummies. Red and green papers, carrots provide Vitamin A, C and many other nutrients and minerals like potassium, phosphorus, magnesium. Red chilli flakes and other herbs not only add spice but improve digestion and contain a very few calories. If you are a mom who needs to lose some weight, adding red chilli flakes is a good option since it promotes weight loss.
So what’s for dinner tonight at your home? Quick N Tasty Aglio Olio Spaghetti would be just nice!
