Aglio Olio With Breadcrumbs

Aglio Olio Ingredients

400 g spaghetti or spaghettini5 tbsp olive oil (divided)1 lemon (zested & juiced)1 cup breadcrumbs2 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes1/2 tsp salt1/4 tsp ground black pepper2 tbsp parsley (finely chopped)

Steps

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.Remove 1 min before it reaches al dente, drain (reserve 1 cup pasta water) & set aside.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.Into the pan used earlier, add remaining olive oil & garlic, sauté for 30 secs & add chilli flakes, cook for 10 secs.Add pasta, half of lemon juice & half of the reserved pasta water, toss to help it amalgamate into a gleaming sauce.Add remaining salt plus pepper, toss to combine, taste to check if you want to add the remaining lemon juice.Remove pan from heat, add most of the breadcrumb mixture & chopped parsley, stir well & divide between 4 serving bowls or plates.Garnish with remaining breadcrumbs, parsley & lemon wedges (optional)