Spaghetti aglio e olio, or pasta with garlic and oil, is a traditional of Southern Italy and is frequently associated with cucina rustica (rural home-style cooking). With just a few ingredients, it takes a just a short time to prepare. In addition to garlic and olive oil, hot chili peppers and parsely are sometimes added. But it is not served with cheese, which is said to compete with the garlic. The history of the recipe is murky, although most theories suggest that it originated in the region of Abruzzo (about 50 miles east of Rome).
Check out our recipe for Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Peperoncino and our wine pairings to compliment the dish.