Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, or simply, Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil

This is totally one of my favorite dishes! Obviously it is Italian, and a very popular way to eat spaghetti in Italy. Very simple dish, and wonderful to serve with some fresh, crusty bread! Serves 6.

1 pound spaghetti noodles
1/2 tbsp salt
1 cup olive oil
3 cloves whole garlic, peeled and sliced
        or
3 tbsp minced garlic
2 whole dried red peppers
       or
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp parsley
1/4 cup parmesan cheese

Prepare spaghetti according to box instructions, but add the salt to the water. Drain and set aside.

Pour the olive oil into a pan, and add the garlic on high heat. When it starts bubbling, turn down heat to low-medium and let it simmer. Do not let garlic get browned too fast, you want the garlic to slowly infuse the olive oil with flavor. When garlic is lightly toasted, turn heat off, and add the prepared spaghetti. Add the red peppers, black pepper, parsley and parmesan, and toss together, incorporating the flavors.

Serve and enjoy! I sure enjoyed it! About 12 points per serving. It is so so so awesome! I like to dip my bread into the oil, it just tastes so good!