Classic Lemon Garlic Pasta
Overview
A bright, quick, and comforting pasta dish that centers on fresh lemon, garlic, and a of parmesan. Perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or a light.
Servings
2
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- Zest of 1 lemon- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
-¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - ¼ cup heavy ( for creamier sauce)
- teaspoon red pepper (optional)
- Salt and freshly black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh (optional) - Extra grated Parmesan for servingoptional)
Instructions
1 Bring large of salted water to a boil. pasta according to package instructions alente. Reserve ½ cup of water before draining.
2 While the pasta cooks, olive in large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook stirring constantly, about 1 minute until fragrant but browned.
3. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using. Adjust taste). Simmer for1–2 minutes.
. Reduce heat to low. Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water, Parmesan cheese, cream (if using). Toss until the sauce coats the pasta and reaches a silky consistency. If the sauce too thick, add a splash more pasta water.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. from heat and stir in chopped parsley ( using).
6. Serve immediately with extra grated on top.
Tips
- a lighter version, skip the cream use ¼ cup more pasta water achieve a silky texture.
- Use свежий lemon for brighter flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice for best.
- If the sauceumps, add 1–2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and toss vigorously to emulsify.
- Pair with a simple side salad roasted vegetables for balanced.
Vari
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-se scallops for a heartier dish.
- Herb note Substitute of parsley with basil or chives for a different herbal profile.
-ty finish: Toss with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture.