Description
This irresistibly zesty lemon pasta is a bright and flavorful dish that combines the fresh tang of lemon with garlic and parmesan, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet elegant pasta recipe that can be customized with fresh herbs for an extra burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Seasoning
- 10 oz Lemon Pasta (any pasta variety can work)
- 2 tbsp Kosher Salt (for boiling water)
- 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Salt to taste
Sauce and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil (can substitute with avocado oil)
- 2-3 cloves Garlic, finely minced
- 1 unit Fresh Lemon Juice (juice from one fresh lemon)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 handful Fresh Herbs (optional, such as basil or parsley)
Instructions
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boiling point and salt it generously to season the pasta during cooking.
- Cook Pasta: Add the lemon pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Before draining, reserve some pasta water for the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, taking care not to burn it.
- Combine Pasta and Garlic Oil: Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic-infused olive oil. Toss the pasta for about 1 minute so it absorbs the flavors.
- Add Lemon and Adjust Sauce: Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice along with some of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Add as much pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Finish with Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving for extra flavor and brightness.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting properties.
- Adjust lemon juice amount according to taste for desired tanginess.
- Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley add a nice touch but are optional.
- To make it vegan, substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative.
