Aglio Olio With Breadcrumbs

Ingredients

• 400 g spaghetti or spaghettini
• 5 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 lemon (zested & juiced)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp parsley (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Steps ---

2. 2

   Bring water in a pot to a boil, salt generously when it starts bubbling, add pasta, give it a quick stir & cook according to packet instructions.

3. 3

   Remove 1 min before it reaches al dente, drain (reserve 1 cup pasta water) & set aside.

4. 4

   Add 2 tbsp olive oil into a pan on medium high heat, add lemon zest & let it sizzle for 10 secs, add 1/4 tsp salt & breadcrumbs, stirring continuously until they turn a deep golden brown & transfer to a bowl.

5. 5

   Into the pan used earlier, add remaining olive oil & garlic, sauté for 30 secs & add chilli flakes, cook for 10 secs.

6. 6

   Add pasta, half of lemon juice & half of the reserved pasta water, toss to help it amalgamate into a gleaming sauce.

7. 7

   Add remaining salt plus pepper, toss to combine, taste to check if you want to add the remaining lemon juice.

8. 8

   Remove pan from heat, add most of the breadcrumb mixture & chopped parsley, stir well & divide between 4 serving bowls or plates.

9. 9

   Garnish with remaining breadcrumbs, parsley & lemon wedges (optional)