In a large pot of boiling salted water cook the very pasta al dente (2 minutes before al dente)
If you are using fresh pepper, then slice it down the middle, remove the seeds and chop. You can use both dry and fresh if you prefer, that's what I do.
Two minutes before pasta is cooked as per package instructions, in a large deep frying pan add the olive oil, garlic and hot pepper flakes or pepper, cook on medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. Stirring occasionally (being careful not to let anything burn). If pasta is not yet cooked then remove from heat.
Replace on the heat, add half the parsley, and cook for a few seconds.
Then add the pasta and the reserved pasta water. Toss together continuously while cooking on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the water has evaporated. Serve immediately with the remaining fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Traditionally Italians will make this recipe with spaghetti and only spaghetti. I have never seen it served with anything else, such as linguine or fettuccine. Make sure you use a good quality pasta and check the package for cooking time.Pasta aglio e olio is best eaten when made although if you do have leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 days in the fridge. Reheat the pasta in a skillet with a little oil and heat through, you could probably reheat it also in the microwave.