Classic Garlic
Servings 4 | Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
-12 oz (340 g spaghetti or linguine
- tablespoons olive oil
-4 cloves garlic, finely minced - /2 teaspoon red pepper (optional)
- Zest of1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional foriness- Salt and ground pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil, garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook until al dente according package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red flakes; sauté 12 until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Add lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine and for 1 minute.
- Reduce heat to low. Return the drained pasta to the pot or add to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at time to reach desired consistency.
5 Stir in Parmesan cheese and, if using, or butter. with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the sauce is glossy evenly distributed. - Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped or basil. Serve immediately.
Variations- Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper finish.
- Include sautéed zucchini or cherry tomatoes for extra and texture.
Storage and leftovers
- leftovers in an airtight container the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of warm water to loosen the.