The simplest of mediterranean pastas — just garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes over spaghetti. This vegetarian favorite is a fresh, family-friendly option that comes together in under 15 minutes.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente, about 8–9 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and cook gently, stirring often, until fragrant and just golden but not browned, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the red pepper flakes, letting them sizzle for 10–15 seconds to infuse the oil. Do not let the garlic burn.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and drain the spaghetti. Immediately add hot spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil.
Toss pasta continuously over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed until the sauce lightly coats the noodles. Finish with kosher salt, black pepper, and parsley just before serving.