Sizzling Spaghetti Herb-Infused Oil (Print Version)

Fresh spaghetti tossed with herb-sizzled oil, garlic, and chili—a vibrant twist on a classic Italian dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 400 g dried spaghetti
02 - 1 tablespoon kosher salt for pasta water

→ Herb & Garlic Base

03 - 4 large garlic cloves, finely sliced
04 - 1 small bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
05 - 10 fresh basil leaves, torn
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
08 - Zest of 1 lemon
09 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

→ Herb-Infused Oil

10 - 120 ml extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 1 small sprig fresh rosemary
12 - 1 small sprig fresh thyme

→ Garnish

13 - Freshly ground black pepper
14 - Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano or vegetarian hard cheese (optional)
15 - Extra chopped herbs

# Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water, then drain.
02 - While the pasta is cooking, combine garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, chili flakes, lemon zest, and sea salt in a large heatproof serving bowl.
03 - In a small saucepan, gently heat the olive oil with rosemary and thyme over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the oil does not smoke. Remove and discard the herb sprigs.
04 - Carefully pour the hot oil directly over the garlic-herb mixture in the bowl, allowing it to sizzle as the flavors infuse.
05 - Add the drained spaghetti to the bowl. Toss thoroughly, incorporating reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce coats the strands and glistens.
06 - Season with freshly ground black pepper and additional salt if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with grated cheese and extra herbs as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Increase chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
02 - Top with toasted breadcrumbs for additional texture and crunch.
03 - Pairs excellently with a crisp Italian white wine, such as Verdicchio or Pinot Grigio.
04 - Omit cheese or use a plant-based hard cheese alternative to make this fully dairy-free and vegan.

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