Description

Lemon pasta is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the tartness of fresh lemons with the rich flavors of garlic and olive oil. This quick recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. The zesty aroma and colorful presentation will impress your guests and elevate any dining experience. With its versatility, you can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences by adding protein or vegetables. Get ready to twirl your fork in a bowl of sunshine!

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
2 large fresh lemons (juice and zest)
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
Sauté garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add lemon juice & zest: Stir in lemon juice and zest into the skillet, mixing well.
Toss pasta in sauce: Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the lemon-garlic mixture until evenly coated. If desired, add reserved pasta water for creaminess.
Season & serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Plate with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Boiling/Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250g)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added richness, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese. Feel free to incorporate vegetables such as spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition. Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative for those looking for whole grain options.