Description
A unique twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, this recipe uses a smoker to create sweet, confit-like garlic cloves that are tossed with al dente spaghetti, chili flakes, and olive oil for a smoky, savory outdoor meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of fresh garlic (approx. 20–25 cloves)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker or grill to 250°F (120°C). Create an indirect heat zone if using a gas grill.
- Peel the garlic cloves and toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Place the garlic in a smoker box, foil packet, or oven-safe dish on the indirect heat zone. Smoke for 8-10 minutes until tender and slightly golden. Do not burn.
- While garlic smokes, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package directions).
- Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add red pepper flakes and let them bloom for 1 minute.
- Add the drained pasta and smoked garlic cloves to the skillet. Toss vigorously.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup) to emulsify the sauce. Add parsley and toss again.
- Season with salt to taste. If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and toss until melted.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Do not burn the garlic; keep smoker temp steady at 250°F. Use starchy pasta water to emulsify the oil. Toast pepper flakes in cold oil for deeper flavor. Applewood or cherry wood chips work best for garlic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate per person
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 10
Keywords: smoked garlic, aglio e olio, pasta recipe, outdoor cooking, smoker recipes, summer dinner, easy pasta, gluten-free option