Aglio e Olio with Minced Meat: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Aglio e olio, meaning "garlic and oil" in Italian, is a classic pasta dish known for its simplicity and intense flavor. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating minced meat, creating a heartier and more satisfying meal. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound pasta (spaghetti or linguine recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground beef or pork (or a mixture!)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Brown the Meat: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Don't overcook the garlic, or it will become bitter.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the meat and garlic. Toss to combine. Add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. The pasta water adds starch, which helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Add vegetables: Sauté some chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the meat for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use different meats: Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for beef or pork.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta cheese at the end for a creamier sauce.
- Fresh herbs are key: Don't skip the fresh parsley! It adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the garlic and oil perfectly.
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Conclusion:
This aglio e olio with minced meat recipe is a delicious and easy way to elevate a classic Italian dish. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
