Pasta aglio e olio often calls for dried chilli flakes, but I like to add a bit of heat with pickled peperoncini (also spelled pepperoncini), which, because of the vinegar, adds a welcome acidity ...

Incorporate Herbs: Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley for a Mediterranean touch. Balance the Acidity: If the pepperoncini ... of red pepper flakes or chili powder ...