Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? This lemon garlic pasta recipe is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With its zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!
Ingredients
– 300g spaghetti
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon (juice and zest)
– 50ml olive oil
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chili flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time: 10 minutes, Cooking time: 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 person): Approximately 450 calories, 15g fat, 65g carbohydrates, 12g protein, 2g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Zest the lemon and add it to the skillet, stirring well.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice into the skillet, mixing with garlic and oil.
6. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
7. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
8. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
9. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Additionally, nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
This lemon garlic pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables. A glass of white wine also complements the dish beautifully.
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 or oil. This dish is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the pasta.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
– Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry dish.
– Using too much garlic can overpower the flavors.
– Forgetting to season the pasta while cooking will result in blandness.
– Not tossing the pasta in the sauce thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Always taste as you go to adjust flavors.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for added depth.
– Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and using nutritional yeast instead.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more chili flakes or incorporate fresh chopped chili into the garlic sauté for extra heat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and mix it with the pasta right before serving.
What can I serve with lemon garlic pasta?
Great pairings include grilled shrimp, roasted vegetables, or a light salad to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
This lemon garlic pasta recipe is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the vibrant taste of lemon and garlic, and impress your friends and family with this easy yet elegant meal.
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 300 g spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon juice and zest
- 50 ml olive oil
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili flakes optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Zest the lemon and add it to the skillet, stirring well.
- Squeeze the lemon juice into the skillet, mixing with garlic and oil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
