This amazing lemon pasta recipe is super quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Just a handful of simple ingredients from your kitchen, and voila! A perfect meal is ready to be served for the whole family.
With its zesty flavors and simple goodness, this lemon pasta is my go-to when I need something that’s not too heavy, but still perfectly satisfying in every way.
Why you’ll love this savory lemon pasta
- Flavorful. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and lemon adds a flavorful sensation to every bite.
- Light and refreshing. A perfectly light and refreshing meal to satisfy your hunger pangs.
- Quick. Ready in just 20 minutes, this is the perfect solution for your busy days and nights.
- Budget-friendly. You’ll find most of the ingredients already present in your kitchen and you can even make a big batch to meal prep your week!
Ingredients needed
- Lemon. Infuses a bright, citrusy flavor to the pasta dish, making it tangy and refreshing.
- Pasta of choice. I prefer spaghetti or linguine for this dish but you can use any of your favorite pastas.
- Garlic cloves. Adds aromatic richness to the entire dish. The lemon garlic pasta combination is irresistible.
- Olive oil. Keeps the pasta from sticking and enhances its texture and flavor of the pasta. I like to use this in place of butter. Extra virgin olive oil is also fine for this recipe.
- Fresh basil. Incorporate a burst of herbal freshness, enhancing the dish’s vibrant taste. This is a wonderful garnish for Italian dishes.
- Salt and black pepper. To taste. You could even had some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
How to make a lemon pasta?
Step 1 – Boil the pasta. Start by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions until it attains that “al dente” perfection. Once cooked, drain it and set aside.
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Step 2 – Heat olive oil and saute garlic. Take a large skillet and heat olive oil on medium heat. Add minced garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes until it starts getting delightfully fragrant without turning brown.
Step 3 – Add lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Add zest and juice of two lemons to the skillet. Mix it up well for a zingy flavor.
Step 4 – Gently coat the pasta. Gently add the pasta to the lemon sauce and make sure every strand gets thoroughly coated with zesty flavor.
Step 5 – Add the seasonings. Sprinkle chopped basil over the pasta and season it with salt and pepper to balance the taste. Stir the pasta so that the flavors blend perfectly.
Step 6 – Serve and enjoy. Your lemon pasta masterpiece is ready to shine! Serve it up and enjoy.
Tips to make the best recipe
- Choose fresh ingredients. Opt for fresh basil, lemon, and garlic for more vibrant flavors.
- Don’t burn the garlic. Make sure you saute minced garlic without browning. Otherwise, it will lose its rich aroma.
- Top with a vegan parmesan cheese. I prefer premium brands like ‘Follow Your Heart’ as it melts like traditional parmesan.
- Make it creamy! If you prefer a richer experience, you can add a can of coconut heavy cream to the lemon and garlic mixture before adding the pasta.
Storage instructions
To store: You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in a refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain their freshness.
To freeze: For longer storage purposes, freeze the lemon pasta in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Oregano, parsley, and thyme can be some great alternatives based on your taste preferences. Always use fresh herbs.
The cooking time can vary depending on your pasta. However, it usually takes about 20 minutes to cook lemon pasta.
Absolutely. You can freely add protein, such as grilled chicken or your favorite veggies, to personalize your meal.
Lemon Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta dried
- 2 large lemons zest and juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup basil fresh, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the lemon sauce.
- Add the chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to combine.
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