Lemon Pasta

Lemon Pasta

4 servings
What's for dinner? How about this one-pot lemon pasta recipe that's ready in 25 minutes! This easy meal has sauce made of butter, parmesan, and lemon.

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    2 tbsp.
  • unsalted butter
    2 tbsp.
  • garlic cloves

    thinly sliced

    4
  • red pepper flakes
    ¼ tsp.
  • uncooked spaghetti
    1 lb.
  • kosher salt
    2 tsp.
  • grated parmesan cheese

    plus more for serving

    ½ c.
  • fresh lemon zest
    2 tbsp.
  • fresh lemon juice
    ¼ c.
  • chopped fresh basil

    plus more for serving

    ¼ c.
  • freshly ground black pepper

    for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat a large pot over medium heat; add the oil and butter. Allow the butter to foam, then add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, 1 minute.

  2. 2

    Add the pasta, 6 cups of water, and salt to the pot and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue simmering for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente.

  3. 3

    Remove from the heat and stir in the parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and basil. Serve topped with more parmesan, basil, and black pepper.

Lemon Pasta

Lemon Pasta

25 min4 servings615 cal

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About this Recipe

Looking for a delicious, bright dinner that's incredibly easy to make? This Lemon Pasta recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful meal in just 25 minutes, all prepared in a single pot. It’s the perfect answer for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying without the fuss.

The true magic of this one-pot lemon pasta lies in its remarkable simplicity and efficiency, making it the ultimate weeknight meal. It skillfully combines everyday pantry staples—like rich unsalted butter, savory grated parmesan cheese, and bright fresh lemon—into a luscious, tangy sauce that perfectly coats every strand of spaghetti. This one-pot wonder not only delivers incredible flavor but also promises minimal cleanup, transforming a busy evening into an effortless culinary experience, truly embodying delicious comfort food.

Prepare for a vibrant, satisfying experience that balances richness with a zesty, herbaceous kick. You'll taste the bright notes of fresh lemon, the savory depth of parmesan cheese, and the aromatic warmth of thinly sliced garlic, all subtly enlivened by a hint of red pepper flakes. The spaghetti emerges perfectly coated in a luscious, silky sauce that clings beautifully, making each forkful a true comfort food delight. This dish is hearty enough to serve as a fulfilling main course, yet its fresh profile also makes it a lovely addition as a side dish, offering a truly versatile and appealing option for your dinner table.

While delicious on its own, this lemon pasta is wonderfully adaptable. Consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or stir in some sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for more vegetables. You can also experiment with different long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine, or adjust the red pepper flakes for more or less heat to suit your preference.

This simple yet elegant lemon pasta is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner after a long day, a comforting and bright lunch, or even as a flavorful and warming side dish during the cooler winter months. For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, make sure to garnish generously with additional grated parmesan and freshly chopped basil, along with a crack of freshly ground black pepper for a truly polished presentation.

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