Spaghetti Aglio e Olio With Pistachio

Name: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio With Pistachio
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 80ml extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; 50g pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped

Highlighted under: Everyday Simple Recipes

I love making Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Pistachios because it's a simple dish that packs a punch of flavor. We combine classic Italian ingredients with a delightful crunch from the pistachios, which elevates this traditional recipe. The garlic and olive oil create a fragrant base, while the nuts add a unique twist. In just a few minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table, perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:05:28.148Z

When I first made Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Pistachios, it was an experiment born out of a need for a quick dinner. I wanted something satisfying yet uncomplicated. The moment I took that first bite, I knew I had stumbled onto something special. The sweetness of the sautéed garlic paired with the richness of olive oil and the crunch of pistachios created a symphony of flavors.

I learned that quality ingredients make a difference, so using fresh garlic and good extra virgin olive oil is key. Additionally, toasting the pistachios just a little intensifies their flavor and adds an extra layer of nuttiness that makes each forkful irresistible. This dish isn't just food; it's a delightful experience in each bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A rich garlic flavor balanced with nutty pistachios
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
A delightful twist on a traditional Italian favorite

Mastering the Garlic

The garlic in Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is crucial for building flavor. To achieve the best results, slice the garlic thinly rather than mincing it. Thin slices ensure that the garlic cooks evenly and gently, allowing it to infuse the oil without burning. Keep a close eye on it as you sauté; you want a golden color without any dark brown edges, which can make it bitter.

If you find you're sensitive to the pungency of garlic, consider soaking the sliced pieces in cold water for about 10 minutes before cooking. This technique can help mellow the flavor while still preserving the aromatic qualities essential for this dish.

Elevating with Pistachios

Pistachios bring not just crunch but also a rich, slightly sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory garlic and chili. Make sure to roughly chop the pistachios just before you add them; this will keep them fresher and more flavorful. Toasting them lightly in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes beforehand can further enhance their taste, bringing out their natural oils and adding depth to the overall dish.

If you're looking for dietary substitutions, pine nuts or walnuts can work in place of pistachios, though they will slightly change the profile. Pine nuts are sweet and buttery, while walnuts have a more robust taste. Experimenting with different nuts can lead to delicious variations, so feel free to play around!

Storing and Reheating

This Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, storing them properly can help maintain flavor. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Avoid adding the parsley before storing, as it can wilt and lose brightness over time.

When reheating, tweak the pasta with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking and keep it moist. You can use either a skillet over medium heat or the microwave. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to mushy spaghetti.

Ingredients

For Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
80ml extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
50g pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped

Note

You can adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes according to your taste.

Steps

Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking gently until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat. Stir in the chopped pistachios and season with salt. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy!

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese just before serving to enhance the flavor even more.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, consider serving it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for an added layer of brightness. This simple addition can enhance the dish without overwhelming the garlic and pistachio flavors. Pairing with a side salad or garlic bread would also create a satisfying meal that's still light.

A glass of white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully, balancing the richness of the olive oil with the sharpness of garlic. Alternatively, a light, crisp sparkling water infused with lemon can refresh the palate and round out the dining experience.

Common Troubleshooting

If you notice your garlic turning too dark, reduce the heat immediately; cooking at medium-low ensures a perfect golden color without compromising flavor. Should your pasta seem too dry after combining with the sauce, reserve more pasta water during the cooking process next time; adding a tablespoon or two can revive the dish to its desired consistency.

For a missed spice kick, consider adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference. The dish can still shine with a milder flavor, but if you're aiming for more heat, feel free to double or even triple the quantity, depending on your spice tolerance!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes, almonds or pine nuts can also work well if you prefer.

→ Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! It's entirely vegetarian and can be enjoyed by everyone.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and toss it with freshly cooked spaghetti later.