aglio e olio
/ˈaʎ.ʎo ˈe ˈɔ.ljo/word by word
The English phrase 'garlic and oil' is translated into Italian as aglio e olio.
This phrase refers to a simple pasta sauce made primarily from garlic and olive oil. In a restaurant or when reading a recipe, you will most commonly see it preceded by the word 'spaghetti' to name the specific dish: spaghetti aglio e olio.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of 'garlic and oil'. aglio means garlic, e means and and olio means oil.
How do you pronounce it?
It has 5 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- In some southern Italian traditions, the garlic in aglio e olio was believed to ward off the 'malocchio' or evil eye.
- In Italy, aglio e olio is often called 'la pasta della miseria' or 'pasta of misery' because it was historically the cheapest meal possible for the poor.
- Despite being a staple dish, many Italians consider spaghetti aglio e olio the ultimate test of a cook's skill, because there is no heavy sauce to hide mistakes in the quality of the ingredients.
Examples in context
- Il piatto di pasta è condito con aglio e olio.The pasta dish is seasoned with garlic and oil.
- Vorrei un piatto di spaghetti aglio e olio, per favore.I would like a plate of spaghetti with garlic and oil, please.
- aglio e olio con i peperonciniGarlic and oil with hot peppers
- Mi piace molto la pasta aglio e olio.I really like pasta aglio e olio.
- Per cena facciamo aglio e olio.For dinner, we are making aglio e olio.
- Preferisco un piatto semplice come aglio e olio.I prefer a simple dish like aglio e olio.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Giulia are deciding what to cook for a quick lunch at home.
- AlessandroGiulia, cosa cuciniamo oggi?Giulia, what are we cooking today?
- GiuliaFacciamo un piatto veloce, aglio e olio.Let's make a quick dish, aglio e olio.
- AlessandroOttima idea, ho già tutto in cucina.Great idea, I already have everything in the kitchen.
- GiuliaPerfetto, allora inizio subito a preparare.Perfect, then I will start preparing immediately.
