Are you craving a dish that is both simple and bursting with flavor? This lemon garlic pasta recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that tantalizes the taste buds. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic makes it a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
This lemon garlic pasta recipe provides approximately 450 calories per serving (1 serving = 1 plate). It contains 15g of protein, 20g of fat, and 50g of carbohydrates.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook 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).
- Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic.
- Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat options for a healthier choice. Additionally, you can use shallots instead of garlic for a milder flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This lemon garlic pasta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. It’s also delightful when served alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking. This dish does not freeze well due to the texture of the pasta.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness – always taste test!
- Burning the garlic will make the dish bitter, so sauté on medium heat.
- Not reserving pasta water can result in a dry dish.
- Under-seasoning can make the dish bland; taste before serving.
- Using bottled lemon juice instead of fresh can affect flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- For extra zest, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Mix in seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color.
- Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While fresh pasta is best, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include red pepper flakes during cooking or finish with a drizzle of chili oil.
What can I serve with lemon garlic pasta?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This lemon garlic pasta recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for any meal. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of lemon and garlic in every bite!
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta spaghetti or linguine
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook 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.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic.
- Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
