Pasta Aglio e Olio {Pasta with Garlic and Oil}

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes ((or more! how hot do you like it?))
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. (see recipe note) Drain, reserving 1 or more cups of the cooking liquid.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic; cook and stir until garlic is tender and very lightly brown (take care not to burn it!). Stir in crushed red pepper. Add pasta and remove from heat; gently toss to coat, adding pasta water if you like to reach your desired consistency.

3. 3

   Add parsley and lemon juice and toss again. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

4. 4

   Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.