Spaghetti with Green Garlic and Olive Oil

In this riff on the classic spaghetti aglio e olio (spaghetti with garlic and olive oil), green garlic replaces the traditional pungent cloves and lends a more delicate garlic flavor.

• Kosher salt
• 2 T bs. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 oz. green garlic, green parts cut into 3-inch julienne strands, white parts thinly sliced
• 6 oz. thin spaghetti
• 2 T bs. freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano; more for serving
• Freshly ground black pepper

Bring 3 quarts of well-salted water to a boil in a large pot over high heat.


Meanwhile, heat the oil in a 10-inch straight-sided sauté pan over low heat. Add the green garlic and 2 big pinches of salt; stir to coat. Cover and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted and softened, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat.


Boil the spaghetti until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package timing. Set aside about 1/2 cup of the cooking water and drain the pasta.


Return the sauté pan to low heat. Add the spaghetti and 1/4 cup of the cooking water; toss well. Add the Parmigiano and 2 Tbs. of the water; toss again. Season to taste with salt and pepper, adding the remaining water if the pasta seems dry. Serve in heated pasta bowls, sprinkled with additional Parmigiano.