Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this lemon garlic pasta recipe! With its zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich pasta texture, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any occasion, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a lovely weekend meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation to make this delicious dish a reality.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 person): approximately 450 calories, 20g fat, 60g carbohydrates, 10g protein. This is based on the ingredients listed above.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice, mixing well to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and lemon mixture.
- Toss the pasta to coat it evenly in the sauce.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Finish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if using, before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or substitute olive oil with butter for a richer flavor. For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Serving and Pairings
This lemon garlic pasta pairs beautifully with a light green salad, grilled chicken, or shrimp. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish well.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to help loosen the sauce. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best fresh for optimal flavor.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy, so always cook al dente.
- Burning the garlic will create a bitter taste; sauté gently.
- Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry dish.
- Using too much lemon can overpower the flavors; balance is key.
- Forgetting to season can result in bland pasta; salt is essential.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Garnish with lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
To make it vegan, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions for extra protein.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including red pepper flakes in the garlic oil or serving with a spicy dipping sauce.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
This lemon garlic pasta recipe is a quick, vibrant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can enjoy a delightful dish in no time. Try it out and savor the bright flavors that make this pasta a standout choice!
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Parmesan cheese grated (optional)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice, mixing well to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and lemon mixture.
- Toss the pasta to coat it evenly in the sauce.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Finish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.