Why You’ll Love Garlic Black Pasta Aglio e Olio Recipe
This pasta is the perfect balance of elegance and ease. It requires only a handful of ingredients, comes together in under 30 minutes, and offers a striking presentation with deep, garlicky flavor. The squid ink pasta adds subtle brininess and a luxurious color, while the garlic and olive oil create a silky, comforting sauce. Ideal for quick weeknight meals, dinner parties, or when you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
7 oz squid ink pasta
5 tbsp olive oil
6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 1/4 cups reserved pasta water
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the squid ink pasta and cook until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Reserve 1 1/4 cups of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
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While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and sliced garlic in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Gently sauté the garlic for 4–5 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn it.
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Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat.
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Gradually add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water, stirring constantly to help the sauce emulsify. Add more water as needed to achieve a glossy, well-coated pasta.
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Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to combine.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Serves: 2
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
• Regular pasta – Use standard spaghetti or linguine if squid ink pasta isn’t available. The flavor will still be amazing, though the dramatic color will be absent.
• Extra spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
• Seafood twist – Top the pasta with seared shrimp, scallops, or sautéed calamari for a heartier, ocean-inspired variation.
• Lemon zest – Add a touch of lemon zest at the end for a bright, citrusy finish.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The garlic flavor may become more intense over time.
Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent the garlic from burning or the pasta from drying out. A microwave can also be used; reheat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What makes this pasta black?
The black color comes from squid ink, which is incorporated into the pasta dough. It gives a briny flavor and a striking appearance.
Can I use regular pasta instead?
Absolutely. Regular pasta works just as well in terms of flavor, though you’ll lose the dramatic black presentation.
What is aglio e olio?
Aglio e olio means “garlic and oil” in Italian. It’s a traditional Neapolitan dish made with garlic sautéed in olive oil, often served with pasta and sometimes a bit of chili.
Is squid ink pasta fishy?
No, it has a very mild, savory, slightly briny flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
Do I have to use red pepper flakes?
Not at all. Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted to suit your heat preference.
What kind of olive oil should I use?
Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil since it’s a key component of the dish. The better the oil, the better the flavor.
Why save pasta water?
The starchy pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, creating a smooth, glossy coating that clings to the noodles beautifully.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
While it’s not traditional, you can certainly top it with grated Parmesan or pecorino if you enjoy cheese with your pasta.
How can I keep the garlic from burning?
Start cooking the garlic in cold oil and keep the heat low. Stir frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns golden.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes. The base ingredients are already vegan—just ensure your pasta is egg-free, and skip any optional cheese toppings.
Conclusion
Garlic Black Pasta Aglio e Olio is a visually stunning and incredibly simple dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or entertaining guests, this elegant twist on a classic recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression.
