Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Instructions

1. Boil the pasta
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Before draining, reserve 2 tablespoons of the pasta cooking water.
2. Prepare the garlic oil
   While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes fragrant and turns light golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter.
3. Add chili flakes
   Once the garlic is golden, add the red chili flakes to the oil. Cook for another 30 seconds to infuse the oil with the chili flavor. If the garlic is cooking too quickly, lower the heat or remove the pan from the heat temporarily.
4. Combine pasta with sauce
   Drain the pasta, reserving the 2 tablespoons of cooking water. Add the spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat all the strands with the fragrant oil. If the pasta seems dry, add the reserved pasta water and toss again.
5. Finish and serve
   Remove the skillet from heat. Add the chopped parsley and toss. If using, add the lemon juice and grated cheese, tossing quickly to incorporate. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately in warm bowls, with additional grated cheese on the side if desired.